EqualAccess Libraries

With libraries a key link in providing access to today’s technologies, it is more important than ever for library staff to be fully fluent in their libraries’ technological offerings—and in their communities’ up-to-the-moment needs and interests.

EqualAccess Libraries is a comprehensive professional development program currently operating in several statewide networks. It offers training, technical assistance, and a strong peer network to transform each library into its communities’ gateway to lifelong learning and technology.

All EA participants receive training in two of the following three programs:

• Health Access, using community partnerships and educational activities to promote the use of libraries for reliable health and wellness information.

• Lifelong Access, a model for community-library collaboration to support productive aging, lifelong learning, and ongoing civic engagement.

• Youth Access, an after-school program building life skills, creative exploration, and community involvement for 10–18-year-olds.

EqualAccess training also includes hands-on workshops on the following EA guiding principles:
• Needs & assets assessment
• Work planning
• Outreach
• Partnerships
• Public awareness and advocacy
• Community technology
• Programming relevant to community needs & interests

For more information, please contact us or visit the EqualAccess website.

EqualAccess Libraries is supported, in part, by a challenge grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.