City Launches Online Resource Hub in Honor of Digital Inclusion Week October 7-11

MADISON, WI – In honor of Digital Inclusion Week, the City of Madison is launching an online resource hub that is dedicated to connecting residents and City staff with things like workforce skills training, digital devices, Wi-Fi, digital literacy training and more. This includes many local and regional community partnerships with flagship institutions, nonprofits, internet provider discount plans, and City-supported initiatives and classes.  

"The role of City government is to provide the infrastructure and basic services our residents need to thrive. Increasingly, that means having the tools and skills to navigate the digital world. I’m proud Madison is strengthening the partnerships and programs that ensure all of our residents have access to essential technologies,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “The new resource page helps us shine a light on those programs and resources.”

2024 marks the eighth annual Digital Inclusion Week (October 7-11), led by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance. This dedicated week provides a platform to celebrate and amplify the community-driven initiatives breaking down digital barriers—one connection, one device, and one skill at a time. 

“Digital inclusion encompasses several critical areas: affordable internet, access to suitable and low-cost devices, digital skills, workforce, and cybersecurity training, and accessibility. These remain out of reach for many in our city,” said Cassandra Hill, City of Madison Digital Inclusion Coordinator. “Although community-based organizations have done work to help address many of these needs, we’re continuing to seek out and prioritize additional partnerships that will help fill the gaps.”  

The City of Madison has a longstanding commitment to community engagement and connecting residents with their local government to enhance their technological lives. Beyond this, Digital Inclusion Week highlights the ongoing, community-based work that is the core of digital equity.

One example of this is the Madison Senior Center, who recently received a National Council on Aging Grant from AT&T to offer digital literacy programming. The grant supports $7,500 worth of digital skills training for Madison’s older adults, and by April 2025, the center anticipates supporting 100 older adults with their digital navigation needs. 

Another example is Madison Public Library’s ongoing device, Wi-Fi access, and digital literacy training efforts. Every library location offers public computers and free Wi-Fi, and in 2023, the library recorded more than 130,000 computer reservations in their nine locations. Additionally, Madison Public Library partners with local organizations and nonprofits to provide one-on-one computer assistance and skills courses where attendees learn computer basics, internet basics, safety and security on digital devices, and more. 

"There is a digital divide," said Hill. "Some people have the access and skills to use computers and the internet. Others don't. That divide affects our most vulnerable residents. It creates barriers to access in healthcare, jobs, education, and public transport. And, as technology evolves, so do the needs. In a mid-sized city like Madison, we must connect residents, community partners, and digital equity leaders to bridge the gap.”

Information on how to access community-led initiatives, classes, and digital skill training opportunities will also be shared at various locations and events around the City throughout the coming year. The resource page was built in partnership with the City of Madison’s Information Technology Department and Madison Public Library and is hosted on the Library’s website at madpl.org/digitalinclusion.

About Madison Public Library

Madison Public Library’s tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for nearly 150 years.  Visit the library online at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org, or @madisonpubliclibrary on Facebook and Instagram.

About City of Madison Information Technology (IT) 

A multiple year Digital Cities Awards winner, the Information Technology (IT) department connects employees and the public to City services and information through people-focused technology solutions. We create opportunities for everyone to engage in City government more comfortably, securely and equitably through technology. Explore our Digital Inclusion initiatives and history.