Locke visits Recovery Act-funded public computer center, unveils new website to help increase computer and Internet skills in America At a public computing center in Baltimore today, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced a digital literacy initiative that works to expand economic and educational opportunities in America. Locke joined U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD) and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) in unveiling www.DigitalLiteracy.gov , a new website that provides libraries, community colleges, schools and workforce training centers a variety of resources and tools for teaching computer and Internet skills, which are increasingly necessary for success in today’s economy. Prior to the unveiling, Locke and the senators toured a computer lab and witnessed first-hand how the people in the community are utilizing this website, which can allow any person to find free training on a range of digital literacy topics, at different skill levels, including searching and applying for jobs online.
“Technology is the key to jobs in today’s economy, but more people need access to computers and the ability to use them,” U.S. Senator Ben Cardin said. “Coppin State University’s community computer center is at the forefront of ensuring that Marylanders have the skills they need to succeed and find jobs. This computer center will help make technology more accessible, and the new website – DigitalLiteracy.gov – will provide people with the computer and Internet skills needed for the digital age.” BTOP is one the largest grant programs ever managed at the Department of Commerce. During Secretary Locke’s tenure, NTIA built a multi-billion dollar program from the ground up and within tight timeframes, ultimately invested in approximately 230 strong projects that will help improve education, health care and public safety in communities across the country.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
