Calgary Public Library Launches Free Digital Literacy Program for Seniors
The 12-week program will teach essential technology skills at 18 library branches across the city.
The Calgary Public Library has launched a comprehensive free digital literacy program designed specifically for seniors, offering hands-on technology training at 18 branches across the city starting this month.
The 12-week program, called “Connect & Learn,” will cover essential digital skills including email, video calling, online banking safety, accessing government services, and navigating health care portals. Each session is limited to 10 participants to ensure individualized attention.
Addressing the Gap
“The pandemic accelerated the shift to digital services, and many older adults were left behind,” said CPL CEO Sarah Meilleur. “This program meets people where they are and gives them the confidence to participate fully in today’s digital world.”
According to Statistics Canada, approximately 22% of Canadians aged 65 and older report having no internet access at home, with the figure rising to 38% among those over 80. In Calgary, community organizations have identified digital exclusion as a growing concern for the aging population.
Volunteer-Driven
The program is supported by a team of 45 trained volunteers, many of them university students and recent retirees with technology backgrounds. Volunteer coordinator James Park said the intergenerational aspect has been one of the program’s unexpected strengths.
“The volunteers learn as much from the seniors as the seniors learn from them,” Park said. “It builds real community connections.”
Funding and Expansion
Connect & Learn is funded through a $350,000 grant from the Calgary Foundation, with additional support from Shaw Communications and the Government of Alberta’s Community Initiatives Program. If successful, CPL plans to expand the program to all 21 branches and introduce intermediate-level courses in 2027.
Registration is free and available at any CPL branch or online at calgarylibrary.ca. Participants will receive a workbook and ongoing access to drop-in tech help sessions.