Age Friendly Libraries Digital Ambassadors Programme

During the pandemic, the Minister of State, Department of Health with responsibility for Mental Health and older persons launched the Digital Ambassadors programme in Ireland's libraries. The programme was developed in partnership between Age Friendly Ireland (AFI) and Libraries Development at the LGMA (Local Government Management Authority). The aim of the programme was to support older persons in accessing online library resources, while physical library services are suspended as part of government measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The ambition for this Programme was for the online training to be rolled out nationally through the 48 Age Friendly Library Champions in libraries around the country. Through tutoring sessions, older persons are empowered to avail of the fantastic range of library services available online. The training consist of tutoring session about getting on to the internet, downloading apps, and access online services, such as exercise classes, singing, zooming. The goal is to reduce social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic.