Not like riding a bike: How public libraries facilitate older people’s digital inclusion during the Covid-19 pandemic

The UK digital divide, whereby sections of society have limited use technology, results in unequal access to information, knowledge, goods and services. Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated the push a world, this challenged people who suffer exclusion, including older people, are more likely lack skills understanding. Public libraries play key role tackling providing training support, equipment Wi-Fi thereby enhancing social inclusion marginalised groups. During innovative solutions were piloted help tackle exclusion isolation despite closure face-to-face library interventions, particularly during lockdowns. This article explores evaluation Housing Plus Pilot, remote support living sheltered housing Newcastle upon Tyne 2021, delivered through partnership between Your Homes Newcastle, City Libraries. A qualitative case study approach examined small sample people’s perceptions regarding success pilot, their literacy before after using semi-structured interviews via telephone. Findings showed that pilot enabled gain necessary knowledge required boost confidence becoming digitally literate citizens. Tackling fears enabling them reinforce learning provision own tablet, free provided springboard for behaviour change. Use setting not only kept safe socially distanced times, but also supportive environment which learn practice skills, together with step-by-step focussed on individual, was wellsuited demographic.