Grants, Programs And More At The Britton Library

    The Britton Public Library is a busy place these days. Even though it seems like they just wrapped up a jam-packed summer reading program, the library staff did not stay idle for long. They are back at it with not only story time but also other programs and initiatives, some funded by significant grants.
    This summer, it was announced that the library was the recipient of a $6,000 grant that will help them promote digital literacy.  Powered by a contribution from AT&T, the Public Library Association (PLA) selected more than 200 public libraries across 45 states, including the Britton Public Library, to host digital literacy and Affordable Connectivity Program workshops. The ultimate goal of the grant is to support public libraries in their work improving digital skills and promoting broadband adoption among families and communities.
    As part of fulfilling the grant’s terms, the library will be offering various workshops over the next several months. Britton Library Director Sonya Lang explained that they are planning workshops on topics such as cybersecurity, basic internet skills, and possibly email use or Zoom meetings.
    The first of these classes was held on Saturday about cybersecurity. They will hold the same class later this month on Oct. 27 from 1:00-2:30. Lang said that the public is welcome to attend this and future workshops as the library needs to fulfill a quota of participants for the grant.
    The library director said she feels the attention to digital literacy is something that is indeed needed in the community. “Whether it’s older folks who aren’t always sure how to use their device or younger people unaware of some of the dangers of the internet, many people could benefit from these workshops,” emphasized Lang.
    Besides the digital literacy workshops, Lang adds that the PLA grant funds will be used in other ways as well. They will soon be enhancing their online security by installing a firewall through SonicWall. This will block pornography and other potentially harmful content from being accessed in the library and using library Wi-Fi.
    The library was also able to purchase a number of laptops lately thanks to the PLA and other grants. “We bought four laptops using the PLA grant, but also four more thanks to a Dollar General grant,” said Lang. “These are a great tool to have in our library for patron usage, especially since we don’t have much more room for desktop computers.”
    Additionally, other exciting things are going on at the library. The ‘teen corner’ has been in usage for a while and features comfy chairs, age appropriate books and a fun place for teens to hang out. Lang added that they hope to add a juvenile space next year as well.
    A reorganization project will also soon be in the works. The director explains that they will be changing to a genre-based shelving system for books. This means that materials will be shelved according to categories such as science fiction, romance, comedy, classics, etc.
    The staff is very excited by all of these opportunities. “We are so happy that we have something for everyone at our library,” said Lang. “It truly is a space for all ages, and we always want to thank the community for helping make that happen.”
    If you are interested in attending a digital literacy library workshop, call the library at 605-448-2800. For future classes, stay tuned to the library’s Facebook page and announcements in the newspaper.