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…
When Marla Boswell talks about robotics at the Arlington Public Library, she does not describe it as a class. She describes it as an experience. After more than 25 years working with tweens and teens, Boswell has learned that the most effective learning happens when kids are fully engaged, curious, and having fun. Boswell began…
When Cynthia Soll and Rachel Kramer from McLennan Community College (MCC) Library in Waco began experimenting with AI, they weren’t intending to lead a tech revolution; their main focus was just trying to save time. Like many library staff across Texas, they wear a lot of hats. So when they saw an opportunity to use…
In the small Texas town of Pottsboro, population just over 2,000, the public library is helping teens launch their careers—literally. Last summer, Pottsboro Public Library offered an innovative workforce development program called Taking Flight: Preparing for a Career in Drone Technology. Funded by a grant from Atmos Energy and Simmons Bank, this five-week course introduced…
There are thousands of jobs in fields like construction, transportation and utilities that need to be filled in Texas. But for many job seekers, breaking into the skilled trades can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What certifications do you need? And how do you connect with the right employers? Pflugerville Public Library is helping…
The Texas Library Association’s “Digital Conversations” concluded their 2024 statewide tour in Alpine and Wichita Falls this past month. The conversation covered topics such as digital literacy, telehealth, grant funding, broadband accessibility, and the many ways libraries can bring digital opportunity to their communities. Both events were attended by community stakeholders, including government officials, local librarians,…
The State Broadband Development Office (BDO) is currently developing their application for the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program (SDECGP), in which Texas was allocated $55.6 million to implement the initiatives identified in the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan (TDOP). This funding will be the first of three tranches over the course of next three years.…