ALACHUA COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Alachua County and Kinetic are inviting residents to attend a series of free digital literacy and fiber education events on June 11 designed to help community members build online skills, stay safe on the internet and learn more about digital tools.
The events are part of Alachua County’s broadband initiative and will be held and three locations throughout the day, including Hawthorne Library, 6640 SE 221st St. in Hawthorne, from 12 to 1:30 p.m., Alachua Library, 14913 NW 140th St. in Alachua, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. and Alachua County Fire Rescue Training Building, 5827 NW 34th Blvd. in Gainesville, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
According to Kinetic, the free sessions will cover topics including cybersecurity, scam awareness, safe internet practices, digital literacy and fiber internet basics. Residents will also learn how to use online tools more effectively for work, education and everyday life.
The educational events are part of a $22.9 million public-private partnership announced last fall between Alachua County and Kinetic aimed at expanding broadband access and digital opportunities throughout the county.
“Expanding broadband access is only part of the solution,” said Stacy Hale, Kinetic’s state operations president. “We also want to make sure residents have the knowledge and confidence to use the internet safely and effectively. These digital literacy events are an important part of that commitment.”
Kinetic officials said the company’s Digital Literacy Program has reached communities across its 18-state service area through free online learning modules and in-person presentations focused on internet safety, streaming, productivity tools and other essential digital skills.
County leaders said the Alachua County initiative combines infrastructure improvements with community education, ensuring residents have both reliable internet access and the knowledge needed to take full advantage of it.
Residents are encouraged to attend the session the best fits their schedule. The events are free and open to the public. Attendees can visit Kinetic’s website, linked above, for more event information.