A Hydro Tasmania-funded course from Libraries Tasmania to improve digital literacy in Tasmanian rural communities has proven so popular that places are filling up fast.

‘Power Up Your Digital Skills’ is free to participants and funded through Hydro Tasmania’s ongoing COVID Recovery Program, and is initially being provided in Smithton, Geeveston, New Norfolk and Deloraine.

The weekly course content includes basic internet safety, buying and selling safely online, and using online video services, with a particular focus on confidently assessing the security and authenticity of web sites, and knowing when it’s okay to enter your personal information.

Libraries Tasmania’s Executive Director, Liz Jack said it is essential for all Tasmanians to feel confident using digital tools, but particularly those who are most isolated or vulnerable.

“The COVID-19 situation brought a huge increase in demand for Libraries Tasmania’s existing digital skills programs, so we’re really excited to be working in partnership with Hydro Tasmania to put on extra programs to meet this demand,” Ms Jack said.

Hydro Tasmania’s Engagement Program Manager Dr Sarah Metcalf said that with technology moving so quickly there was a risk of some people being left behind.

“We’re all more reliant on technology than ever before, just to keep in touch with our friends and family, so a course like this can be incredibly empowering and really improve your quality of life.”

Places are filling fast and people are encouraged to contact Libraries Tasmania to book a space.

• New Norfolk Library

  Wednesdays 28 April to 9 June, 2.30 pm

• Smithton Library

  Wednesdays, 28 April to 9 June, 10.00 am

• Geeveston Library

  Mondays 26 April to 7 June, 10.00 am

• Deloraine Library
  Mondays 26 April to 7 June, 1.30 pm

Ends.

Released for Hydro Tasmania by Trent Swindells / 0409 722 359 / media@hydro.com.au.