Washington County Welcomes First Digital Navigator to Public Libraries

WCCLS is excited to introduce you to Mari, our first Digital Navigator who is serving as an AmeriCorps member. In addition to offering drop-in hours to assist patrons with their technology needs, she will be co-presenting with library staff on topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. Get to know Mari and learn more about the role of a Digital Navigator in the Q&A below. 

WCCLS: What does a Digital Navigator do?

Mari: A digital navigator is someone who provides consistent technical support for people in the community, whether that’s basics like how to use a computer or professional development like how to access web-based resources.

WCCLS: What are some specific examples of things you can help with?

Mari: Printing, email, Google Suite, Microsoft Office. I can help people use personal devices like smartphones and laptops – iPhone and Android. I can’t fix hardware issues, but I can help diagnose a problem.

I can also help people who don’t have a strong broadband connection by providing wi-fi hotspots or helping them talk with internet service providers. I want to empower people to take autonomy over their tech.

WCCLS: What else do you want people to know about your work?

Mari: I specifically seek to help people understand that technology is not out of their reach. It’s accessible and helpful and anyone can use it. Technology is really powerful. I am someone who will take the time to help people understand and get the results they need. I am very patient.

WCCLS: Besides digital inclusion, what are you passionate about?

Mari: My most basic passions are technology and helping people, and that’s where digital inclusion sets my heart ablaze. I love education and art of all forms. I'm a huge environmental advocate and work with non-profits in my spare time to advocate for environmental justice and other causes like food insecurity and housing inequity.

WCCLS: What do you love about public libraries?

Mari: They’ve helped me in my personal life, and I’ve found community through libraries. Libraries are a space for learning and innovation; they’re such a wholesome place where anyone can go and learn. I want to be part of that welcoming energy to bring people in.  

Get tech help

Find Mari at a library near you. Look for her at the WCCLS table and tell your friends! She is available during drop-in hours or by appointment at select locations. Schedule varies by library. If you have questions, please contact your local library.

WCCLS has partnered with Washington County's Economic Development Program to bring the Digital Navigator Program (DNP) to public libraries. The DNP is funded in part by American Connection Corps, an AmeriCorps program dedicated to advancing economic prosperity by bridging the digital divide. This project is being supported, in part, by federal award number SLFRP0228 awarded to Washington County by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.