Let’s Get Connected! Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley point the way to free and low-cost internet and offer tech help
Earlier this year, Southeastern, in partnership with Mid-Hudson Library System and Ramapo Catskill Library System, embarked on a process to identify organizations that wanted to be part of Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley. The response was overwhelmingly positive: forty-eight (48) libraries and community organizations registered to have staff trained. “We have been thrilled with the interest community organizations have shown in this program,” said Tessa Killian, Executive Director of Southeastern. “We trained seventy-two (72) navigators who will now be able to have a significant impact on Hudson Valley residents in need of a range of types of technology assistance.”
Digital navigators are trained, trusted guides who work in libraries or other community organizations. They assist anyone in need with using a device, securing free or low-cost internet service, and much more. The program is open to anyone who needs help. This includes people who have devices and phone service or internet access but need help with use, or those who have no internet access at all.
Digital Navigators are available in libraries and other community organizations in these counties: Columbia, Greene, Dutchess, Ulster, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan, and Rockland.
Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley
The program is administered by Southeastern New York Library Resources Council and supported with federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated to the New York State Library by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS; imls.gov).
For a full list of locations with navigators, visit hvconnected.org.