Nashville Public Library + Nashville Public Library Foundation | 2015 Annual Report

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BOOKS ARE ONLY HALF THE STORY Computer Training and Digital Literacy digitally literate person can use technology strategically to find and evaluate A information, connect and collaborate with others, produce and share original content and use the Internet and other technology tools to achieve academic, professional and personal goals. Yet, 20 percent of American adults cannot access or use the Internet, 34 percent of non-Internet users don’t believe the Internet is relevant to them and 32 percent perceive the Internet is difficult to use. More than twothirds of non-users believe they need someone to help them go online and use the Internet effectively. The result is a significant digital divide that impacts an individual’s potential, community connectivity and local economic development. Nashville Public Library offers all Davidson County adults, regardless of age, household income, ability or language preference, a robust series of digital literacy programs, free of charge. Since 2010, these programs have reached nearly 10,000 adults. Free access to computers and Internet is a key element of what NPL provides – with nearly 800,000 public computer sessions taking place at the library each year. Additional services include personal instruction on introduction to computers, Internet use and online safety, Microsoft Office and NPL’s free digital products, including databases, e-books and downloadable content. In addition, NPL offers both stationary and mobile “Job Labs” with personalized instruction for unemployed or underemployed patrons in need of job search assistance. Digital Inclusion is sponsored by Google Fiber and the Nonprofit Technology Network (NTEN). 20+ 44% 54,495 The number of NPL’s digital literacy community partners, including Conexión Américas, The Salvation Army and the Nashville Adult Literacy Council. Percentage of Metro School students who do not have access to computers or connectivity at home. Number of Metropolitan Nashville households that need assistance to enter the digital age. (Connected Nation) 28
SUSAN REAVES Digital Inclusion Fellow 2015-2016 “ As Nashville Public Library’s Digital Inclusion Fellow, I am privileged to join a select group. Nashville Public Library was chosen as one of only sixteen community agencies across the United States to receive the firstever Digital Inclusion Fellowship funded by Google Fiber and NTEN (Nonprofit Technology Network). The program recruits leaders from digitally divided communities to work towards increasing digital literacy and broadband adoption in their cities. This is also a personal mission for me. With prior experience in IT and Telecom, I have seen the disturbing growth of the digital divide. In Nashville, more than 30 percent of Metro residents lack home broadband access. The cost of network access, difficulty in finding affordable devices, and failure to understand the relevancy of the internet are barriers to digital inclusion in our community. As the hub of digital education and public access to technology, Nashville Public Library provides computer skills classes and digital skills support for job search assistance in our Job Labs. As part of my Fellowship, I will help raise community awareness for NPL’s digital initiatives, provide enhanced curriculum and assist in developing new training programs. Outreach is a huge part of this movement, not only to teach adults why it’s exciting to use the Internet, but also why it’s necessary and how it can improve their lives. In today’s world, basic computer skills and access to the Internet are essential when applying for jobs, pursuing education, and increasing job skills. Without effective and consistent digital access, high school students have difficulty completing online assignments. College students struggle with online courses. Others may not be able to access the bus schedule or find needed services. Almost all job applications are online. I’m so fortunate to have this fellowship and to be part of the digital inclusion movement with Nashville Public Library. I look forward to sharing our progress in next year’s report. “ Nashville Public Library + Nashville Public Library Foundation | 29
Page 3 and 4: Nashville Public Library & Nashvill
Page 5 and 6: One great aspect of assembling an a
Page 7 and 8: Nashville Public Library + Nashvill
Page 11 and 12: LAUREN HERRING Parent and Preschool
Page 13 and 14: Judy: Our favorite aspect of Nashvi
Page 15 and 16: $350,000 Thanks to a generous gift
Page 17 and 18: STEPHANEE RAUSCH Librarian, Harris
Page 19 and 20: What kind of national notice has Li
Page 23 and 24: COLLIN VARGAS Nashville School of t
Page 25 and 26: KARA YOUNGBLOOD NAZA Reading Mentor
Page 29: JUDY RYE Director of Adult Educatio
Page 33 and 34: 2014 Nashville Public Library Liter
Page 35 and 36: Major ($50,000-$249,999) Mr. Victor
Page 37 and 38: Thanks to the $50,000 yearlong spon
Page 39 and 40: Summer Challenge Heroes Unite to St
Page 41 and 42: KLEM-MARÍ CAJIGAS Family Literacy
Page 43 and 44: Library Foundation Financials July
Page 45 and 46: Gifts of $5,000 to $9,999 Beth and
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Page 52: 615 Church Street Nashville, TN 372

Nashville Public Library + Nashville Public Library Foundation | 2015 Annual Report

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