Back in early February, digital opportunity leaders from across the country gathered in Chicago for Net Inclusion 2026. The sessions covered broadband legislation, AI literacy, disaster response, tech distribution, and the uncertain future of federal funding.
But one message rang clear above all others: Digital opportunity is local work. And libraries are uniquely positioned to lead it. For Texas libraries in particular, this moment presents both urgency and opportunity.
Tech Distribution Is More Than Handing Out Laptops
One session explored technology distribution models from places like Ontario and Austin. Programs such as Austin Free-Net and partnerships with Goodwill and Methodist Healthcare Industries shared what works and what remains challenging.
What works:
- Strong city partnerships
- Refurbished devices with warranties
- Community-based distribution sites
- Integrated digital skills training
- Trusted referral partners
What is hard:
- Limited laptop supply
- Long waitlists
- Repair delays
- Bringing participants back for ongoing training
The strongest models operated as ecosystems. Public libraries, senior centers, recreation centers, corporate donors, and refurbishers worked together rather than in isolation.
Texas libraries are already functioning as anchor institutions in their communities. The opportunity now is to formalize that role in digital opportunity ecosystems. Where are the gaps? Who is not at the table? Libraries can facilitate those conversations.
AI Literacy Is the Next Digital Divide
The AI literacy session made one thing clear: generative AI is not a future issue. It is a present one.
Digital Navigators are now teaching:
- What generative AI does well, such as brainstorming and document analysis
- How to identify deepfakes and misinformation
- How to think critically about algorithmic bias
- How tools like resume screeners and language translation systems work
One especially compelling insight was how older adults are using AI tools as non-judgmental outlets for conversation. That points to both opportunity and responsibility.
Libraries in Texas can lead in this space by:
- Hosting AI basics workshops
- Integrating AI discussions into digital literacy programs
- Teaching both use and skepticism
- Addressing online safety concerns
If libraries do not step into AI literacy, misinformation will fill the gap.
Disaster Response and Connectivity
The disaster response session was sobering. In crisis situations, connectivity disappears quickly. No email. No broadband. No reliable communication. Older adults are often the most affected.
Digital Opportunity is disaster preparedness.
Texas libraries have already demonstrated this during hurricanes, winter storms, and local emergencies. Libraries become cooling centers, warming centers, charging stations, and information hubs.
The lesson from Chicago: Connectivity planning must be embedded into emergency management conversations at the local and state level. Libraries should have a seat at that table.
What This Means for Texas Libraries
Texas is vast. Urban strategies do not always translate to rural communities. But libraries exist in every type of community across the state. That makes them one of the most stable and trusted digital opportunity infrastructures available.
Here is how Texas libraries can take the reins:
- Lead locally. Convene Partners. Map your digital opportunity ecosystem and identify gaps.
- Expand digital navigator models. Libraries are natural homes for this work.
- Integrate AI literacy now. Do not wait for demand to overwhelm capacity.
- Be aware of what’s going on in your community. Attend broadband meetings.
- Frame digital opportunity as essential infrastructure. Not a program. Not a pilot. Infrastructure.
The Big Takeaway
Net Inclusion 2026 made it clear that funding cycles will change. Technologies will evolve.
What remains constant is this: Communities need trusted institutions to help them access information, technology, healthcare, and jobs. Libraries already do that work.
Now is the moment for libraries, especially in Texas, to step forward not just as service providers but as leaders in shaping the future of digital opportunity.
