Digital inclusion of individuals and groups includes an awareness of internet access points and this week is recognized as digital inclusion week.
Because a portion of the individuals in our communities can not afford home broadband or computer devices, a community digital equity assessment is advisable to determine access points for desktop or laptop computers, tablets/smartphones.
Likely, current community access points include locations like:
- Inside libraries or library parking lots
- Parks
- School parking lots
- Restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores
- Churches or places of worship
- Career centers
These locations may also have digital navigators that can assist with internet access. As an example, Buncombe Public Libraries provide assistance in connecting to their building Wi-Fi access point and provide printer services.
Making internet access part of your community’s digital inclusion plans includes creating goals for groups to address each aspect of the digital divide: broadband access, broadband affordability, computer devices, and digital literacy.
Thanks to the Land-of-Sky Regional Council of Governments, Wi-Fi Lot Maps are available.
The WNC Broadband Project Team is here to help you. Contact the leadership team today or mention your digital inclusion thoughts to a member of our advisory board.
More About Broadband Access
https://wncbroadband.org/blog/blog/category/broadband-access/
Reference
NC Broadband Infrastructure Office Digital Inclusion Planning Guide
https://www.ncbroadband.gov/assistance/digital-inclusion-template-guide
