The Telstra Foundation and The Alannah and Madeline Foundation have announced an $8 million, multi-year partnership to work alongside libraries to develop and deliver eSmart Libraries. 

 

eSmart is a behaviour change initiative for cybersafety and wellbeing. It is an online system that provides a road map to the tools and resources that will equip the library community with the skills and knowledge they need for the smart, safe and responsible use of technology.

 

Both Foundations recognise that libraries are an essential community resource for supporting digital inclusion. With support from their governing bodies, they are taking advantage of new technologies and the online world. In recent years, many libraries have looked at how they can balance the opportunities of online technology while maintaining their responsibilities to set good standards and help library users.

 

The Telstra Foundation’s funding will upscale these efforts and provide a consistent and holistic approach and offer this opportunity to all of Australia’s 1,500 public libraries over the next five years.

 

The next step will be to pilot eSmart Libraries in 20 clusters of libraries in early 2013 and afterwards, roll it out Australia-wide. During this, the partnership will work further with libraries to gain insight and develop eSmart Libraries. In turn, this will support the library community to manage cyber issues and continue to embrace the positive benefits of online activity.

 

For more information visit the website www.amf.org.au.