Click, Learn, Conquer: How Digital Navigators Unlock the Internet

Picture having a patient, tech-savvy tutor helping you unlock the digital world. That’s the role of Larimer County’s Digital Navigators! They’re like tech teachers, guiding folks through the sometimes confusing world of computers, the internet, and smartphones. Thanks to support from the state, AmeriCorps, and companies like Comcast, these tutors are setting up shop in places like the Estes Valley Library. They’re dedicated to helping people facing hurdles in the digital realm gain the skills and access to thrive in our increasingly digital society!

Program Overview and Services

Digital Navigators provide one-on-one and small-group assistance to improve digital literacy, home connectivity, and device access. Key services include:

• Skill-Building Sessions: Offering recurring appointments for skills like smartphone use, email management, file organization, and software training3.
• Community Outreach: Raising awareness about digital equity through partnerships with libraries, workforce centers, and housing communities24.
• Device and Internet Support: Helping individuals acquire affordable devices (e.g., laptops, Chromebooks) and navigate low-cost internet options5.

The program prioritizes flexibility, with assistance available in person, by phone, or online1. Drop-in sessions and scheduled appointments ensure accessibility for diverse needs3.

Estes Valley Library’s Role

As a host site since 2023, the Estes Valley Library in Estes Park serves as a hub for Digital Navigator services in the region. AmeriCorps members stationed here:

• Conduct personalized assessments to identify residents’ connectivity, device access, and skill gaps4.
• Develop tailored digital inclusion plans, such as guiding older adults through telehealth platforms or assisting job seekers with online applications3.
• Partner with local organizations to reach underserved groups, including rural populations and non-native English speakers2.

The library’s central role reflects the broader recognition that public libraries are uniquely positioned to bridge the digital divide due to their community trust and existing infrastructure3. Erik Rock, Technology Manager at Loveland Public Library (which oversees the Larimer County program), notes that demand for tech assistance has surged, with libraries becoming critical lifelines for digital skill development3.

Community Impact and Future Expansion

The program has already demonstrated tangible benefits. Participants gain confidence in using technology for daily tasks, employment, and education, while AmeriCorps members like Chris Smith describe the work as “one of the most rewarding experiences” of their lives3. Estes Park residents, particularly in rural areas, now have sustained access to resources that were previously out of reach.

Looking ahead, Larimer County plans to expand Digital Navigator services through:

• Recruitment: Adding more AmeriCorps members for the 2024–2025 term, with applications opening in early 20253.
• Enhanced Partnerships: Collaborating with workforce centers and housing communities to embed Navigators in high-need areas25.
• Statewide Coordination: Participating in Colorado’s Digital Navigator Community of Practice to share strategies and resources with other regions4.

By integrating localized support with state-level policy efforts, Larimer County’s Digital Navigators exemplify a scalable model for advancing digital equity. The Estes Valley Library’s involvement ensures that even remote mountain communities like Estes Park can thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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