The Library Digital Opportunity Team (LDO) at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission recently heard about a sensory non-profit called KultureCity that was working with Texas libraries to make them more accessible to patrons with sensory needs. Grapevine Public Library has been using special equipment, like headphones, weighted lap pads, fidget tools, and other…
The Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO) has updated their Texas Digital Opportunity Hub. The improved website is a powerful tool for libraries looking to strengthen their broadband capabilities, expand services for patrons, and close the digital divide in Texas. More data and information have been added, and features have been enhanced. The BDO created this…
Public libraries have always played a key role in connecting their patrons to crucial, life-saving services and resources to improve their lives, and they can do this by making partnerships with local, state, and national organizations. A partnership program offered by the Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) is a great opportunity to enhance library…
As part of our on-going commitment to promoting digital literacy efforts in libraries across the state of Texas, TSLAC’s Library Digital Opportunity team goes to libraries and films interviews with librarians and staff to document their work in the community. We recently visited libraries in La Grange and Houston to see how they are helping…
In 2021-22, The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) awarded one-year American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants to 10 Texas public libraries to support Digital Navigator programs. Afterwards, TSLAC funded a research study by UT Austin’s Technology and Information Policy Institute (TIPI) to evaluate the grant. The researchers, Sharon Strover, Whitney Nelson, and Sheila…
The digital literacy movement is making some of the greatest strides in Amarillo, Texas, of all places. Known as “The Yellow Rose of Texas,” Amarillo conjures images of the rugged, Old West spirit, the iconic Route 66, and the grandeur of the Palo Duro Canyon. There used to be a joke that Amarillo had more…
The Texas Library Association’s “Digital Conversations” tour stopped in Clute, Texas on May 9, at the Brazosport Center for the Arts. The panelists presented some of their programs and work, highlighting the need to close the digital divide. With people participating from Brazoria County, Clute, and the Houston area, the event was well-attended, and a…