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CHICAGO — The Public Library Association (PLA) is pleased to announce expanded digital literacy funding opportunities and resources for public libraries, powered by a generous $2.7 million contribution from AT&T. This initiative is part of AT&T’s Connected LearningSM program and its commitment to bridging the digital divide. Applications are now open for the PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, as well as for the new PLA Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive. With the additional support from AT&T, PLA will offer new and improved DigitalLearn course modules that are freely available to anyone through DigitalLearn.org and AT&T ScreenReady®.

Since 2022, PLA has helped nearly 400 public libraries conduct more than 3,800 workshops, training more than 19,000 learners across 45 states through its digital literacy incentive programs.

The 2024 workshop incentive will provide libraries with the funding and resources necessary to teach basic digital literacy skills using PLA’s DigitalLearn courses and training materials. A 2023 library awardee remarked, “These experiences have been wonderful, seeing patrons overcome their fears, learn from mistakes, and gain the courage to try again. These weekly classes became a hub of community and knowledge.” This year’s incentive will support 50 large libraries with $10,000, and 50 small libraries with $5,000, with an overall goal of reaching more than 5,000 learners across the country.

“The just-released 2023 Public Library Technology report details the essential role of libraries and library staff in advancing digital equity and inclusion in communities of all sizes,” said PLA President Michael Lambert. “PLA’s sustained collaboration with AT&T boosts the capacity of our libraries to expand their reach and empower more residents with the digital literacy skills needed to fully engage in a rapidly shifting digital landscape.”

“Public libraries are an incredible avenue for community members to access vital digital resources,” said Mylayna Albright, AVP, Corporate Social Responsibility, AT&T. “We’re proud to be collaborating with PLA as they assist libraries in bringing our workshops and classes to people across the nation.”

The new PLA Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive will support digital navigators at public libraries utilizing DigitalLearn materials to support library patrons with ongoing, individualized guidance with their devices, connectivity, and digital skills. PLA will award 35 libraries with $4,000. Libraries must have existing digital navigators to apply.

Both incentives are generously supported by AT&T. The application period will remain open to public libraries from July 26, 2024, through October 18, 2024.

AT&T and PLA have also collaborated to add and update more than a dozen online DigitalLearn courses in English and Spanish, covering topics ranging from email setup to online safety. They have developed to support library staff in providing classes for learners. All the courses and materials found on are free to use.

About the Public Library Association
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.

*About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T 

We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, and improving lives. As part of our companywide commitment to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning® to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008 we’ve committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states, Washington D.C. and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.