Digital Inclusion Projects in Libraries: Video Showcase

June 10, 2025

In Fall 2024, the North American Regional Division (NARD) of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) invited libraries to submit short videos showcasing their digital inclusion projects.

Seven videos were recently shared on the division’s YouTube channel, including five from Canadian libraries.

Edmonton Public Library: Expanding Digital Inclusion through Volunteer Language Interpreters

This video showcases Edmonton Public Library’s (EPL) innovative Interpreter Volunteer Role, a key initiative designed to enhance digital inclusion within our diverse communities. Recognizing that language barriers can prevent equitable access to essential digital skills, EPL formalized this program to embed volunteer interpreters directly into beginner Computer Skills classes. Learn how this community-led approach, guided by EPL’s Digital Literacy Framework, directly addresses the needs of newcomers and English Language Learners. Discover how providing crucial language support not only breaks down significant barriers but also empowers individuals, fosters community connections, and ensures digital literacy learning is truly accessible and effective for everyone in Edmonton. This initiative highlights a practical, sustainable model for libraries aiming to bridge the digital divide.

Library Impact Ontario: Harnessing Data to Drive Digital Inclusion

Library Impact Ontario is an innovative initiative that helps libraries throughout the province of Ontario to measure and communicate the impact of their digital services. It provides a free suite of services that offers standardized outcome measurement tools and tailored support resources for libraries of all sizes. Library Impact Ontario brings together Ontario public libraries to leverage data analytics, insights and training to make data-informed decisions and to demonstrate how library technology services address digital inequities and promote economic and social inclusion.

Markham Public Library: Supporting Digital Inclusion through AI Learning

This video highlights Markham Public Library’s journey to inform both our staff team and our community about artificial intelligence in partnership with ENGR Solutions.

Oakville Public Library: Halton Newcomer InfoPods

With funding from Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (Federal Gov) and in collaboration with the Halton Newcomer Strategy, the Oakville Public Library/Halton Information Providers has created a kiosk dedicated to programs and services offered in the community dedicated to newcomers.

Oakville Public Library: Information Oakville – Virtual Community Boards

As a response to the closure of library and subsequent restrictions upon a slow reopening due to COVIS, OPL created a virtual community board so that agencies could get the word out and customers could keep abreast of community happenings. Post COVID the free add on service is thriving and fits in our Diversey=, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Pillar and customer service values

The full set of videos can be found on the IFLA North American Regional Division YouTube Channel.