GOSHEN, Ind. -- The Goshen Public Library on Monday announced that it will be one of the over 100 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) to increase digital literacy.

"The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive and the new PLA Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive support public libraries in their work of improving basic digital skills among families and communities," said Goshen Public Library Development and Community Engagement Manager Grace Thomas.

"Goshen Public Library will use the $5,000 of funding to boost access to digital learning materials in both Spanish and English through free, hands-on workshops. Topics will include Internet Basics, Computer Basics, Email Basics, Cybersecurity, Video Conferencing, and Mobile Device Basics."

The local program will be using Digitallearn.org resources, which was established by a $2.7 million contribution from telecommunications company AT&T.

“The library is excited to offer these free workshops to the Goshen community,” said Thomas. “Our goal is to support community members in enhancing their digital skills—whether that’s improving communication with loved ones, gaining valuable job skills, or navigating the wealth of information available online.”

Goshen Public Library’s workshops will begin in February with sessions in both English and Spanish.

“PLA is proud to support public libraries in being at the forefront of boosting digital literacy skills and bridging the digital divide in their communities," PLA President Michael Lambert said. "With another year of PLA’s sustained collaboration with AT&T, more learners across the nation than ever before will get connected to vital digital literacy skills and technology resources at the library.”

Registration per workshop is limited, and will be on a first-come, first-served basis. 

The St. Joe County Public Library in South Bend and the Hamilton East Public Library in Noblesville are also receiving funds to help their patrons with digital literacy from the PLA.