Librarians are the Experts! Local Coordination for Statewide Digital Equity Success

• Train the trainer model for Digital Equity Planning and Coordination. 
• Starting with the basics - level setting using a cohort model for certification (detailing the Digital Inclusion Leadership Certificate and how we leverage it for the DE Specialists)
• Bringing in Community Voices - using community assessments and community feedback to plan for the future.
  

Presenters:

Erin Lorandos has worked in libraries and other informal education spaces for her entire career, and was humbled and honored to be managing the Digital Equity Act funding in Arizona. Now, as the owner of Platia Group, LLC, she is excited to embark on new adventures, bringing together her passion for connecting people with the resources they need and providing support for organizations focused on digital equity, digital literacy, and social impact in communities. 

Michelle Simon is the Director of Pima County’s Office of Digital Inclusion, leading Connect Pima, the county’s digital equity and infrastructure plan. With over 25 years in technology and workforce development and 12 years in library leadership at Pima County Public Library, she has built programs that expand broadband access, digital skills, and device availability. Her achievements include launching 120 free community Wi-Fi hotspots, securing a $30.3M NTIA grant for a 140-mile open-access fiber network, and creating innovative library-based technology lending and training programs that continue to transform how residents connect and learn.