Friends of Mansfield Library bring back On-on-One Tech Help

Published on 17 May 2024

Free one-on-on tech help will continue at the Library thanks to the generous funding of the community group Friends of Mansfield Library (FOML) and $1,600 donation from Council to further extend this valuable program.

The original tech help program was highly successful when it was held for several months in 2023 with $12,912 from the Victorian Sate Government’s Digital Literacy for Seniors Program.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the original program highlighted the demand in the community for this kind of service.

“I cannot thank Friends of Mansfield Library enough for supporting the community this way,” said Cr Rabie.

Library Coordinator Justine Shelton said many community members benefited from the program.

“Many of our community members struggle with fast-changing technology but more and more, people are asked to access important services online, from banking to government services.

“The program has demonstrated how much our community members need time to be shown and guidance from an IT specialist. Library staff are not able to offer the type of assistance required. The program means an IT specialist can provide one-on-one assistance and actually show people how to use their own devices, so they can improve their skills and access services independently when they need to,” Justine said.

“We’re really grateful for the valuable contribution the Friends of Mansfield Library make to the community. In the past 12 months, they have purchased shelving for the Library and other important resources, including a mobile phone charging station. They have run programs such as the Harry Potter nights and funded several school holiday programs.”

Tech help sessions will be available on Fridays until the end of July. Make a booking by calling the Library on 5775 8621. Community members are encouraged to bring their own device.