FCC Says Adults Need Tech Training

New Yorkers – time to get hooked up.

The Federal Communication Commission’s first-ever survey on internet use in the United States showed that 22 percent of adults have “digital literacy issues,” such as a lack of online skills or fear of the internet.

In addition, 35 percent of the 5,005 adults surveyed between October and November of 2009 don’t have Broadband access at home.

The New York Public Library is working to help the digitally impaired, offering free internet access at most branches, as well as more than 25,000 free public programs, including computer classes, at its 89 branches across Manhattan, The Bronx and Staten Island.

Adults of all ages and skill levels participate in classes such as “Introduction To the Computer,” “Introduction to the Internet,” “Advanced Word,” “Microsoft PowerPoint,” and “Intermediate Internet E-Mail.”

Classes are offered in other languages, as well.

A complete listing of classes offered to adults can be found at http://www.nypl.org/events/classes.

The media is encouraged to make an appointment to sit in on the classes and speak to adults learning the ins and outs of the technological world. Teachers and students are also available via phone for interviews.

For more information, contact New York Public Library Public Relations Manager Angela Montefinise at 212-592-7506 or Angela_Montefinise@nypl.org.