Digital Literacy

Program Overview

Kingsville Public Library is excited to announce the launch of NorthStar provided by the Ohio Public Library Information Network. The NorthStar Digital Literacy Assessment, offered through Kingsville Public Library, is aimed at helping adults acquire the skills they need in today's workplace. People without basic computer knowledge are at a disadvantage when it comes to finding a job because employers expect basic computer skills for most jobs, including many entry-level positions.

The free set of assessments includes self-guided modules: Essential Computer Skills (Basic Computer Skills, Internet Basics, Using Email, Windows, Mac OS), Essential Software Skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and Using Technology in Daily Life (Social Media, Information Literacy, and Creative Job Search). Closed captioning is available and screen readers are supported.

Anyone with a library card can access the modules and take the tests online at digitalliteracyassessments.org. At the end of each test, the user receives a page of results, which lists the skills that have been mastered and the areas that need improvement.

According to NorthStar, the modules are based on a set of basic computer competency benchmarks developed by a diverse group of literacy providers, business representatives and nonprofit agencies. These standards help ensure that computer classes are teaching adult learners the exact skills they need to succeed in the workplace. To earn a certificate for one or more of the modules, adults must take the tests in a supervised setting at an approved test site. Kingsville Public Library is among the community organizations using the standards as part of its programming and is offering certificates.

Beginning February 15, 2022, Kingsville Public Library will have a 4-part series educating the community on Computer Basics, using NorthStar, happening on Tuesdays at 6:00 pm. This in-person program will be led by the library's Digital Literacy Trainer and will assist participants with job preparedness by teaching them the basic computer skills needed in this age of technology.

These programs are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio which has funded the library's Guiding Ohio Online Digital Literacy Trainer through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant. 

Seats are limited for the in-person program. Register by calling (440) 224-0239 or by visiting the library's website at https://www.kingsville.lib.oh.us.