OUR local libraries are helping to improve digital literacy across the region through the Be Connected initiative, with $6500 in State Government funding allocated to the program over the next 12 months.

Be Connected is a free nationwide initiative that builds on basic levels of technical knowledge to increase confidence in digital skills while teaching the importance of online safety to all Australians.

Residents will be guided through various online activities in the comfort of their local communities and learn the skills necessary to navigate the internet, demystifying and familiarising them with digital platforms and social media.

The flexible program is not only beneficial for retirees and seniors, but also accommodates people wanting to expand their skills for finding a job, locals living in remote areas and even those who have no prior technology experience with a range of workshops catered to personal learning requirements.

Tech Savvy participant Sharon McMillan found the program to be extremely useful, attending the Dalby session earlier this year in the hopes of learning how to use her computer more efficiently.

"I really enjoyed the workshop and took so much away from it such as how to safely shop online, use the internet and also how to use software applications like Microsoft Word, with helpful tips that make computer work so much easier,” she said.

"I believe education like this is so important and that's why I want to attend more sessions in the future - I've already recommended the program to a lot of people around town.”

For more information on how to get involved, contact your local library.