More than 100,000 San Francisco residents lack internet access at home or are not proficient at using the internet and digital devices. As more basic services are moving online, many are left behind, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families. They lack the knowledge or support to use the internet and gain digital skills, and they view the internet as difficult, unsafe to use, or irrelevant.
Last year during the annual Digital Inclusion Week, more than 2,000 people gained knowledge and resources to help them in the ever-increasing tech-required world. This year, the San Francisco Public Library and more than 20 partner organizations have created Connect with Tech Week (PDF), happening May 7 – 12.
The public can attend a tech expo to learn about technology programs, training resources, new services, and the latest products. There will be panel discussions exploring AI’s potential to help achieve a more inclusive workplace and the state of digital inclusion in San Francisco. A tech fair at the Tenderloin Tech Lab will feature free digital device repairs, coding and smartphone workshops, and more. The library’s TechMobile will be hosting 3D printing demonstrations.
Community Tech Network is one of the partners and will be involved in
- Offering a Digital Parents class on Wednesday, May 9, at Twitter’s Neighbor Nest (95 Hayes Street). The class will be delivered in English from 10 a.m. to noon and in Spanish from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. It will show how technology is changing the way students learn and is reshaping the way parents and teachers interact. Participants will learn strategies to help their children with schoolwork and keep them safe online. They will also learn how to connect with teachers and see their child’s progress through the Unified School District portal. Free childcare will be provided by Twitter. Space is limited: call 415-557-4388 to reserve a spot.
- Organizing the Digital Leaders Awards the evening of May 9. Tickets are available here.
- Staffing a booth at the Tech Expo, happening on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Latino/Hispanic Room on the lower level of the Main Library, along with other nonprofit providers and tech organizations. The event includes device giveaways and raffle prizes, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive presentations. All levels of technology users are welcome, including seniors and people with disabilities.
The full schedule of more than 60 events and classes is available via PDF here and at sfpl.org/ConnectWithTech.
