A Year In: Growth, Connection, and Perspective

It’s been a year since I stepped into the role of Digital Literacy Consultant at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. It’s been a year of growth, discovery, connection, and deepening appreciation for the thoughtful and selfless care librarians put into their work as they serve their communities.

A year ago, I was traveling across Texas visiting public libraries to provide professional development as part of the Continuing Education and Consulting team’s workshop series, and I learned just as much if not more than the librarians we met with. Having spent 15 years as a school librarian, this experience provided a great opportunity to learn more about public libraries, and it gave me a clearer understanding of what digital literacy really means in communities across Texas.

From Feedback to Action

In order to know where to begin, I asked the librarians we met to answer a questionnaire about their technology needs and experience. Not surprisingly, the top tool librarians wanted more information and training on was AI. Second was media literacy. Additionally, the two most requested types of support from the Digital Literacy Consultant were resource/tool recommendations, followed closely by staff training opportunities.

In response to these requests, I created the E.L.S.A. Tech Cohort (Explore. Learn. Share. Apply). This cohort is a learning community that meets through Zoom designed to help public library staff explore emerging technologies and digital tools. Each session includes guided instruction, hands-on engagement with new tech, and opportunities to share ideas, learn from each other, and brainstorm how these tools can be used with patrons and staff. Our focus so far has been on AI, understanding what it is, the different AI tools out there, and the role libraries play in this new tech landscape.

Along the way, I’ve also come across some creative and notable ways Texas libraries are using AI beyond the basics of AI. Check out the articles below, documented by TSLAC’s Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator, Warren Davis.

On the Road Again

I’ve also taken to the road again, doing in-person presentations. I’ve presented to librarians and educators on AI and media literacy. What stands out the most is the resiliency and determination I see in the librarians as they tackle new challenges like AI to serve their communities well. And even though for some there is hesitation and perhaps even fear of AI, they show up to these sessions because they want to understand not just what these tools are about, but how to use them responsibly, ethically, and in ways that truly support their communities.

TSLAC Digital Literacy Consultant Elsa Trevino-Dominguez presents at a CEC workshop at a library in Texas

Resources Worth Sharing

In preparing for these presentations, I have discovered many good AI and media resources worth recommending. Below are my top choices:

AI Resources

Media Literacy Resources

Funding Opportunities

One of the most consistent needs I’ve heard from libraries is to improve their technology, whether it’s upgrading computers, expanding WiFi access, or investing in new equipment. But often, budgets are tight, hindering their efforts. Below are a few current funding opportunities that libraries may want to explore.

Onward

As I move into my second year, I’m continuing to build on what I’ve learned, and I’m excited to continue supporting libraries with training opportunities, resources, and guidance as they navigate emerging technologies. I look forward to continuing this work alongside them.

Questions? Let’s connect! Have a tool to share? Send it my way and I’ll spotlight staff picks! etdominguez@tsl.texas.gov

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