DigLib kicks off in Milan

We’re thrilled to be participating in a new Erasmus+ KA2 Cooperation Partnership project ‘DigLib’ (Digital Libraries), together with Public Libraries 2030, CSBNO, FRSI and EOS. On March 11-12, the consortium met in Milan for the first time to kick-off the project and its activities. Our mission over the next 3 years: to transform public libraries into vibrant digital hubs, empowering librarians as community moderators.

Why DigLib?

Recently, the rapid digital transformation in society has impacted the way in which citizens engage with information and digital technologies. Digital technologies are also increasingly shaping educational practices and skills required in professional contexts. Innovation efforts, such as the digitisation of public services, has also created marginalisation and exclusion of those individuals who lack digital competences and access to technologies. So, how can the digital transformation be made more inclusive?

The DigLib approach

Public libraries play a vital role in addressing this challenge. As community hubs for lifelong learning, they already provide support to individuals from all social groups in accessing information, providing assistance with digital technologies, and the development of new skills. The changes in society has also led to a significant transformation of the role of the public library and its staff. The DigLib project seeks to leverage the power of non-formal education to provide librarians with the technological skills needed to innovate and adapt. Our approach will include various activities, such as desk research and the mapping of digital skills, the development of capacity-building programmes, and the creation of immersive learning environments. Our focus will be on helping librarians bridge the digital divide with their community, foster social inclusion, and facilitate access to quality job opportunities among the new digital citizens.

While in Milan, the DigLib partners had the opportunity to present the DigLib project and its approach to the Italian library sector during the ‘Waiting for Next Library 2025’ event, which took place in the context of the annual Stelline Conference.

Stay tuned for more in the coming weeks!