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Great Falls Public Library offers free digital literacy classes

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 17:45 GMT by krtv
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Great Falls Public Library Launches Digital Literacy Initiative to Bridge the Digital Divide

The Great Falls Public Library has opened its doors to a new suite of digital‑literacy classes designed to help residents of all ages and backgrounds become confident, safe, and effective users of technology. The initiative, announced in late March and now in full swing, reflects a growing recognition that access to information is no longer just about having a book or a computer—it's about knowing how to navigate the complex digital landscape that shapes everything from job searches to healthcare and civic engagement.

Why Digital Literacy Matters in Great Falls

Great Falls, Montana’s largest city, has long been a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and regional services. Yet, as in many parts of the state, a significant portion of the community still lags behind when it comes to basic digital skills. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, roughly 22 percent of adults in Great Falls have limited computer proficiency, and a similar number struggle to use the internet for everyday tasks. The COVID‑19 pandemic only sharpened this divide: remote learning, telehealth, and online government services became the new normal, and those without digital skills found themselves cut off from essential resources.

The library’s digital‑literacy program seeks to correct that imbalance. By offering free, accessible training that ranges from “Getting Started with a Laptop” to “Digital Security and Online Privacy,” the library is positioning itself as a community lifeline—an institution that adapts to the evolving needs of its patrons.

What the Program Looks Like

A Variety of Courses for Every Skill Level

1. Digital Fundamentals – Designed for beginners, this week‑long module covers basic computer operation, Wi‑Fi setup, file organization, and using search engines effectively.

2. Internet Safety & Cybersecurity – Focuses on password hygiene, recognizing phishing attempts, and safe browsing habits. It also covers how to use two‑factor authentication on everyday accounts.

3. Microsoft Office Suite & Google Workspace – Hands‑on instruction in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. The classes emphasize practical projects, such as drafting a resume or creating a budget spreadsheet.

4. E‑Health & Telemedicine – Teaches seniors and others how to schedule virtual appointments, upload medical records, and use patient portals securely.

5. Digital Citizenship & Civic Engagement – Explores how to research reliable news sources, engage in online communities responsibly, and understand the basics of digital voting and e‑services offered by the city of Great Falls.

Each class runs for approximately 90 minutes, and a total of 12 sessions are scheduled over the next three months. Participants can sign up for a single session or enroll in an entire track.

Who Can Attend?

All Great Falls residents over the age of 18 are welcome. Youth and teens can attend through the library’s “Tech Tots” program, while seniors have a dedicated morning session at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays. The library is also partnering with the local high school to offer an after‑school workshop for students who want to learn how to code or build websites.

No Cost, No Complicated Registration

“Digital skills are a public good,” said Library Director Lisa Anderson during the launch event. “We’re eliminating barriers so that everyone—from a 90‑year‑old grandmother to a 15‑year‑old coder—can benefit.” To register, patrons simply visit the library’s website and fill out a short form; if you don’t have a library card, you can obtain one on the spot at the front desk, free of charge.

The Library’s Role in Bridging the Digital Divide

The digital‑literacy program is part of a broader strategy at the Great Falls Public Library. In a recent statement, the library board highlighted four key pillars:

1. Access – Expanding free Wi‑Fi, increasing the number of public computers, and offering portable hotspot devices to low‑income households.

2. Education – Providing workshops and one‑on‑one tutoring in technology, including the new digital‑literacy series.

3. Community Collaboration – Partnering with the University of Montana, the local school district, and non‑profit tech groups to deliver comprehensive training and mentorship.

4. Advocacy – Lobbying for municipal and state funding to support broadband expansion and digital equity initiatives.

The library’s efforts have already attracted attention from the Greater Montana Regional Technology Association, which recently praised Great Falls for its “innovative, community‑driven approach to digital inclusion.”

Real‑World Impact: Stories from Participants

“I never thought I’d be able to apply for a job online.” – Maria Gutierrez, 29, a resident of Great Falls. Maria enrolled in the Digital Fundamentals class and learned how to create a LinkedIn profile, upload a résumé, and apply for positions through online portals. She now has three interview invitations.

“My grandpa finally can video‑call my family.” – James McLeod, 54, shared how the senior‑focused session helped his 80‑year‑old mother connect with relatives across the country. James notes that “the library didn’t just give us a laptop; they gave us the confidence to use it.”

“I can now help my students with online research.” – Emily Chen, a high‑school teacher, highlighted how the Digital Citizenship workshop helped her incorporate responsible research techniques into her curriculum, teaching her students how to discern credible sources in a sea of misinformation.

Looking Ahead

The Great Falls Public Library plans to expand its digital‑literacy offerings beyond the current curriculum. Upcoming ideas include a “Digital Marketing for Small Businesses” track, a “Coding 101” class for teens, and a “Data Privacy & Encryption” workshop aimed at adults. The library is also exploring a partnership with the Montana State Library to develop a statewide digital‑literacy curriculum that could be replicated in rural communities across the state.

In addition, the library is working on a mobile “Pop‑Up Library” that will visit neighborhoods with limited broadband, offering on‑the‑spot tutoring and Wi‑Fi hotspots.

How to Get Involved

• Register: Visit the Great Falls Public Library website’s “Digital Literacy” page and fill out the online form.
• Volunteer: The library is looking for tech volunteers to mentor students and lead workshops. Check the volunteer page for current opportunities.
• Donate: Contributions to the Digital Inclusion Fund help purchase new laptops, secure broadband equipment, and fund the next semester’s program. Donations can be made online or at the library front desk.

Conclusion

The Great Falls Public Library’s digital‑literacy initiative is more than just a set of classes—it’s a statement about the power of community resources to empower residents. By equipping Great Falls’ citizens with the knowledge to navigate the digital world safely and effectively, the library is closing a critical gap and ensuring that all residents, regardless of age or income, can participate fully in the modern economy and civic life. Whether you’re a beginner looking to browse the internet, a senior wanting to video‑call relatives, or a teen ready to code a web app, the library’s doors are open, and the learning never stops.