Digital Literacy

I just visited a friend of mine who had recently built a new (private) elementary and middle school in Providence, Rhode Island.  He insisted that the new school be physically centered around the library -- that, he believes, is the heart of a school.  I thought his idea was brilliant. 

The library was wonderful -- filled with books, artwork, computers and places to read and share stories.  It was airy and light and an inviting place.  But when I asked about what online databases the library was using, I got a blank stare. 

They didn't have any. 

Sure, they had state of the art computers.  But the school didn't have a librarian who could help guide the kids to knowledge they are seeking online.

That's why Washington County Library Partners has launched, "Connecting Kids."  It's an effort to raise $15,000 so the county libraries can put tablets into the children's sections.  The tablets will be loaded with age appropriate educational software -- and just as important -- there will be librarians to help our kids start to figure out how to do research online.  

If you want a sense of what children can do with tablets, go to the Washington County Library website and check out "Homework Help."  And if you want to help Library Partners, go to our website.  Thanks!