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T.B. Scott Free Library receives $10,000 PLA grant

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T.B. Scott Free Library in Merrill was one of five Wisconsin libraries and more than 130 public libraries to receive a Public Library Association (PLA) grant for the purpose of hosting a digital literacy workshop between Dec. 2024 and May 2025. The grants were funded by a $2.7 million contribution from AT&T. “The T.B. Scott Free Library is, most definitely, a tech hub for Merrill and the surrounding communities,” said Laurie Ollhoff, Director at the T.B. Scott Free Library. She confirmed the T.B. Scott Free Library received a $10,000 PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive Grant.
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. The workshops will utilize DigitalLearn training materials, created in collaboration with AT&T, that are freely available to anyone through DigitalLearn.org and AT&T ScreenReady.
This cohort is the third to participate in the expanded national initiative and collaboration between PLA and AT&T. 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. This new cohort will increase the number of learners libraries can continue to reach.
PLA President Michael Lambert said, “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. 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.”
Workshops will be offered on eight digital literacy topics. Courses cover basic technology skills which include topics such as internet use, video conferencing, cybersecurity, and using mobile devices.
Recipients of the new PLA Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive will utilize DigitalLearn materials to support library patrons with ongoing, individualized guidance with their devices, connectivity, and digital skills. Digital navigators are trusted guides who assist community members with ongoing, individualized support for accessing affordable and appropriate connectivity, devices, and digital skills.

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