Digital Inclusion
Digital Inclusion
Digital Inclusion
Maps
Texas Free WiFi Map: interactive map listing locations around Texas where citizens can access free WiFi.
Connected Texas: illustrate the uneven access of highspeed broadband access statewide.
Center for Rural Innovation: maps local Independent School Districts without broadband access.
What is Digital Inclusion?
- Digital Inclusion is the ability of individuals to access and use information and communication technologies (ICTs). Digital inclusion is achieved through affordable, robust Internet services, digital literacy skills, quality technical support, access to hardware and software, and opportunities for resources and services that augment inclusion efforts.
- Read TSLAC's Digital Inclusion Statement to learn how we are assisting Texas libraries on their own digital inclusion efforts.
Ways for Your Library to Make a Difference
- Know Your Community's Needs:
- Use this worksheet (.docx) to find and report detailed information about the digital divide in your community.
- Add your library's location to the Texas Free WiFi Map and share it with community partners.
- Review discount internet options available for your community as part of the Emergency Broadband Benefit progam.
- Know Your Library's Capacity:
- Take the Edge 2.0 Assessment, a free tool for all accreditated Texas public libraries that surveys your library's technology offerings; use it to priortize technology advances and grant requests.
- Review tutorial webinars.
- Contact Cindy Fisher, TX Edge Program manager for assistance
- Work through the Toward Gigait Libraries Broadband Toolkit to reveal your library's physical infrastructure needs to upgrade your library's internet speed. Contact Cindy and Henry for assistance.
- Take the Edge 2.0 Assessment, a free tool for all accreditated Texas public libraries that surveys your library's technology offerings; use it to priortize technology advances and grant requests.
TSLAC Tools
-
COVID-19 Resource Information Disability Information & Referral Center (DIRC): resources compilied by TSLAC's Dina Abramson, Disability Information and Resource Center Coordinator
- Enroll in E-rate: Receive steep discounts on internet access for your library.
- Request a free Ploud library website. Ensure you are communicating timely, releveant and accessible information because your patrons deserve more than a Facebook page! Contact Henry Stokes to learn how.
- Enroll in free online You Can Do I.T. training to learn about how all about broadband and library technology and feel more confident communicating with stakeholders and I.T. staff.
- Basic Network Technology course
- Basic Hardware and Software Skills course
Resources
- Governor's Broadband Development Council - Established in 2019 by the 86th Legislative Session in order to study and identify ways to provide internet access to underserved areas of Texas.
- National Digital Inclusion Alliance - non-profit policy organization providing news and resources about the national importance of digital inclusion.
- Simulating Internet Speeds - What's the difference between100 mb download speed and 10 mb when trying to do a video chat? This tool will show you.