Five local senior citizens recently completed a short course at the Margaret River Library, learning how to use tablets to access the internet and be connected. The course was supported by a Federal Government grant via the Be Connected program.

Each participant was lent a tablet to take home for a month, so they could get hands-on and work towards becoming comfortable with the technology.

They attended a couple of group learning sessions to get started, and to assist with trouble-shooting in the early stages, with individual support offered at the end of the course.

‘The attendees all demonstrated real persistence and courage in learning how to use this technology for the first time,’ said Jodie Porter, Shire’s Library Technician. ‘Plus they were willing to have a laugh while doing so, which made the sessions enjoyable for everyone.’

Pictured are participants Ian Newton and Diana Newton-Jones, with the tablets loaned to them for the duration of the program.

In September, the Margaret River Library (in partnership with Be Connected) will launch a program that offers assistance to Seniors who would like to learn the basics of using a tablet to access the internet.

The program will be aimed at anybody who:

– Is over 50 years old

– Wants to learn the very basics

– Would like to borrow a tablet to take home for the duration of the program

– Is a member of the library, or eligible to join and borrow

We are looking for expressions of interest now, so that we can tailor the program accordingly.

If you (or somebody you know) would benefit from this program, please contact Jodie Porter on 9780 5606 or email jporter@amrshire.wa.gov.au

Places will be limited and bookings essential. The Margaret River Library is an inclusive and accessible venue.