Discover how libraries of all sizes have successfully used Edge to advance key community outcomes.
Morgan County Library used Edge in order to help with technology planning, set priorities and apply for grants. In addition to this, the library works with the local government in order to improve digital literacy in the community, offering computer classes, developing programming, and assessing what the community thinks is most important.
After completing the Edge Assessment, Caruthersville realized that the library needed to step up its privacy protection for the digital devices available to patrons. Following this insight, the library installed privacy screens, tightened filters and added security software to the library’s computers. The library also increased its investment in providing digital training and learning resources.
Pioneer Library served as a key community hub for their town after a devastating community ravaged their town. They provided access to vital eGovernment resources and they provided training for those who needed it via FEMA, the BBB and the SBA.
Edge provided a framework for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library to evaluate and reconfigure its strategic community partnerships, helping the library forge new relationships with area colleges, national technology service providers and the county government. These partnerships have empowered the library to expand local makerspace opportunities, train staff in digital competencies and implement a digital inclusion curriculum for the public.
Edge propelled Pottsboro Area Public Library to rethink how it could better meet its community’s technology needs, including expanding services to provide greater public Wi-Fi access and assistive technology for disabled patrons.
Edge has allowed Greensboro Public Library to assess its technology offerings and make strategic decisions, letting it be a partner and expand its role as a leader in the community. Library leaders realized that GPL staff are the primary contact for community members seeking tech resources and training, and fostered greater tech competency among staff through programs such as Green L.I.T.E and Tech Navigators, which connected staff with the community through Tech Open Houses.
San Mateo County Libraries uses Edge to assess its technology, communicate its impact and plan for the future. The library makes bridging the digital divide a key priority as a library in an area with a very high cost of living, so it embarks on programs like being the first library in California to loan Wi-Fi hotspots.
Guthrie Public Library used Edge to address digital literacy concerns in various ways such as one on one computer tutoring, mobile device classes and early literacy electronic tablets for children. The library also implemented a bookmobile service with a mobile hotspot to address county communications infrastructure. Edge also benefitted the library by reengaging the staff and providing free training that also served as team-building.
Steger-South Chicago Heights Library identified key benchmarks they could improve upon easily without breaking the bank. The library also offered digital literacy classes, and made sure that their efforts were publicized, even making the Chicago Sun Times, the Chicago Tribune and the front page of The Citizen, a local newspaper.
Independence Public Library used Edge to align its services with the evolving needs of its increasingly tech-forward community. Edge helped the library realize it could have a significant impact in helping local residents explore and begin training with new technologies. To serve that need, the library developed Maker Space to Go kits that allowed patrons to take home cutting-edge interactive learning devices.
The library used Edge to survey the community and realized that patrons wanted a more convenient way to access library materials and information, so the library created a mobile app to increase library awareness and provide access in markets the library may not be reaching. The library also began providing real-time reference services to support their individual goals and needs, and created a live chat service.
Since taking Edge, Indian Prairie Public Library has become seen in the community as an institution that leads and responds to citizens' technology needs. The library has identified foundational items that needed attention to support technology at the appropriate level to maintain this status, which is why the library has initiated an annual usage review of devices and wifi, as well as regularly performing speed tests and prioritizing network traffic.
Through Edge, JPL received data and reports to help them make the case for more resources to allow the library to expand and improve technology services and partnerships. As a result, JPL staff was able to create and teach advanced classes that cover digital photography, digital image editing, coding and other technology classes.
Through Edge, MCPL built partnerships to improve its digital leadership offerings. The library built strong ties with Madison County Schools to engage educators and students to develop summer reading programs and other tools to develop a love of reading in students, as well as offering eLibrary cards for students in grades four through 12.
Mascoutah Public Library used Edge to update the library website, equip staff with laptops and employ individuals from a wide range of ages.
