The New Jersey State Library is partnering with Literacy Minnesota to bring full-time AmeriCorps members to six public libraries in New Jersey as Digital Navigators. They will work in libraries in high-need communities. The Digital Navigation AmeriCorps Project is a locally responsive, scalable solution to the digital equity crisis.
Six libraries will be chosen through an application process to be assigned one full-time, on-site Digital Navigator for 10-12 months (minimum of 1700 service hours).
This project specifically targets communities with:
- Racial and ethnic minorities
- Limited English proficiency
- Lower levels of formal education
- Low-income households
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are public libraries established pursuant to Chapter 33 or Chapter 54 of Title 40 of the New Jersey Revised Statutes or a library established pursuant to N.J.S.A. 15A:1-1 et seq., and receive public funds pursuant to N.J.S.A.40:54-35.
Guidelines and Dates
Information about the Digital Navigator Corps including application instructions are available in the Digital Navigator Corps Guidelines (PDF).
- Guidelines and Application published – August 1, 2024
- Informational webinar with NJSL and Literacy Minnesota – August 20, 2024
- Application deadline – September 15, 2024
- Selected host libraries notified of award – October 15, 2024
- Virtual training for Site Supervisors with Literacy Minnesota – TBD
- Digital Navigator first day of service and national AmeriCorps Member orientation – January 13, 2025
Apply Now
The deadline to apply for the Digital Navigator Corps is September 15, 2024.
NJSL uses Foundant, an online grants management system for applications. You must create an Organizational Profile before you create your application.
Applicants will automatically receive a confirmation message. If you apply and do not receive acknowledgement within 24 hours, send a message for assistance to Andrea Levandowski, Adult Services Specialist at alevandowski@njstatelib.org.
Click here to apply through Foundant.
Informational Webinar
An informational webinar with representatives from NJSL and Literacy Minnesota was held on August 20, 2024 at 11:00am.
You can download the following materials from this webinar:
About Digital Equity and Digital Navigators
According to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, “Digital equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy.” However, many communities experience a gap between those who make full use of the internet and technology in their everyday lives and those who cannot because of significant barriers.
Digital Navigators are one best practice for bridging the digital divide. They work in communities as trusted guides to provide one-on-one, individualized assistance to those who need it. This partnership between Literacy Minnesota and the New Jersey State Library will allow AmeriCorps members to act as Digital Navigators. Their primary goal will be providing digital skills instruction to community members in their host library location.
Questions?
Contact Andrea Levandowski to learn more.