Digital Inclusion

Connected Texas: illustrate the uneven access of highspeed broadband access statewide.

Center for Rural Innovation: maps local Independent School Districts without broadband access.

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.

Know Your Community's Needs:
- Use this worksheet (.docx) to find and report detailed information about the digital divide in your community.
- Work with partners to create a map of all the free WiFi locations in your community
- Review low-cost internet options available for your community:
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 Broadband Toolkit (.docx) to reveal your library's physical infrastructure needs to upgrade your library's internet speed. Contact Cindy and Henry for assistance.

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

Virtual Platform Possibilities - Providing Digital Skills Resources for Patrons (recorded PLA webinar) - provides ways and tools to reach those that have limited connected or digital literacy skills
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.
State Of Broadband in Texas' Rural Communities - Texas Comptrollers Office (Oct 2019)