Digital Navigators are trained, trusted guides who help deal with a variety of technology needs. Navigators work in libraries and other community organizations. They assist anyone in need with using a device, securing free or low-cost internet service, and much more. This service is FREE! To learn more about the work of Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley, you can view our website here. 
 

Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley is looking for new navigators! You will be mentored by a current active member of the cohort. 

--> Apply to be a mentor here (this is only for individuals who are part of either Cohort 1 or 2 of Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley.)
--> Apply to be a Digital Navigator mentee here (this link is open to anyone in the region.)

View our information session from November 18, 2022 here!

What is this program?

The Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley program will train participants from libraries and community-based organizations to become trusted guides who assist community members in accessing and using technology. The training will provide the resources necessary for participants to perform new services that include: assistance with affordable internet access, device acquisition, technical skills, and application support.

New trainees will be assigned a mentor from the current cohort of Digital Navigators.

What is the purpose of this program? 

This program will prepare library workers and staff at community-based organizations with new skills and resources to perform the duties of a Digital Navigator. Digital Navigators will be equipped to assist under-resourced individuals in their communities to access and use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The Digital Navigator program will include the following:

• Access to digital literacy resources
• Quality technical support
• Applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation, and collaboration

The program will provide training and resources that will enable Digital Navigators to: 

• provide basic procedural training and support to clients. 
• help clients fill out paperwork, submit required identification documentation (if they don’t have access to a computer/scanner/printer), and provide support in acquiring the necessary documentation.
• set up and operate a computer. 
• facilitate, set up, and use an affordable Internet connection. 
• learn “how to” basics for priority applications. 
• Utilize the program’s protocols to assess individual needs, work with clients to set goals, track progress, keep records, and evaluate and report outcomes.
• Effectively use all available outside resources, manage referrals, and contribute to the functional knowledge base of the Digital Navigators program. 

What is the timeline? 

The mentor program will run from December 1, 2022 to March 15, 2023

November 9, 2022 Applications open

November 18, 2022 Information Session for individuals who are interested in participating

November 30, 2022 Applications close

December 1, 2022 Applicants who are chosen will be notified and will be sent a contract to be signed by the director of the organization

December 9, 2022 Contracts are due back

December 5-12, 2022 Participants will be required to watch six (6) pre-recorded training sessions and will be assigned a mentor from the existing cohort.

The training will cover, with scheduled break-out sessions to encourage discussion and interactivity, the following topics:

• Introduction to digital inclusion and equity
• Understanding learner needs
• Data collection and analysis
• Overview of local resource guide, audience, and community 
• Skill share and sharing resources including tools and resources 
• Privacy and Internet safety

Please note: All sessions will be held virtually. Participants in the Digital Navigator program will be assessed on their understanding of the program following the training. 

December 12, 2022-March 15, 2023 is the window for program implementation. During this time, Digital Navigators will be expected to meet with at least five (5) clients from the community. Participants will be asked to complete intake and assessment forms and keep checklists when meeting with clients. You will be expected to meet with each client at least twice.  

We will hold regular office hours every other Thursday at 12pm. The purpose of these meetings is to spend time with your mentor to talk about client interactions. You will also meet with the larger group for coaching, discussing regional issues, gathering feedback, discussing challenges and wins, and identifying solutions.

The scheduled meeting dates are 12/22/22, 1/12/23, 1/26/23, 2/9/23, 2/23/23, 3/9/23, and 3/23/23

March 15, 2023. Final assessments are due.

Who can I contact for more information? 

Members of Mid-Hudson Library System should contact Kerstin Cruger. 

Members of Ramapo Catskill Library System should contact Jen Park.

All others should contact Carolyn Bennett Glauda at Southeastern NY Library Resources Council.