Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) is working to address the digital divide and gaps in literacy in the County, and it needs your help. The library is launching a public survey to collect better understand the community's digital and technology skills and needs. This survey, available in paper and online, will have a vital impact on the technology programs and services CCPL offers at each library location and through its outreach services.
“Technology is constantly changing, and we are in the process of changing along with it,” says CCPL Technology Coordinator Andrew Dombrowski. “This survey will help us understand how we can best serve and guide our community through this constantly evolving digital landscape.”
Like many areas of the U.S., Charleston County is facing issues with equitable access to digital connectivity and services. According to data published in 2023, just over 20% of Charleston County households (32,861 households) do not have internet subscriptions. This digital gap is greater than many other counties in South Carolina, including Berkley, Dorchester, Greenville and Richland.
“While there has been improvement in broadband access in Charleston, there are still too many members of our community that lack high speed internet,” says Dombrowski. “With 18 locations spread throughout Charleston and providing Wi-Fi and computer device access, the library is uniquely positioned to help areas of the community that have not historically had access.”
This survey will help the library identify areas of need within the County including the types of services and programs, including course topics and training needs for library staff. Using this information, CCPL will target its resources to have the most impact on residents.
Last month, the South Carolina Digital Opportunity Department published a report addressing the goals and needs for bridging the digital literacy gaps in the state and it highlighted libraries as an essential hub for these efforts stating that “South Carolina only has one asset that directly serves all covered populations: public libraries.”
“We understand the value of the role libraries play within our community and so we are working to build our capacity so we can enhance these already existing services that provide equitable access to our communities,” said Natalie Hauff, Deputy Director over Innovation. “We recognize digital literacy is a basic life need. From searching and applying for a job, communicating via email, or learning a new software that will lead to a new career, providing technology support and skill-building makes a difference in the lives of our community, and we want to make sure we are providing what is needed for that growth.
The brief survey can be completed online at ccpl.org/techsurvey. Paper copies (English and Spanish language) are also available at any open library location (for a full list, including operating hours, visit ccpl.org/branches).
For a list of current tech programs and services available at your local library, visit ccpl.org/calendar or contact the branch.
