May Digital Literacy Newsletter
I hope you’re enjoying the beautiful spring weather! May is shaping up to be an exciting month for Literacy Rochester, and we’re thrilled to share what’s coming up.
First, we’re launching one-to-one Digital Literacy services at two additional locations:
- Rush Public Library starting Wednesday, May 7th, from 1pm-3pm (every other week)
- Scottsville Free Library starting Wednesday, May 14th, from 1pm-3pm (every other week)
We’re looking forward to helping more community members get connected and confident with technology.
Second, The Digital Literacy Program has purchased a multi-charging cable for each site. Each cable is 4 feet long and includes a Type-C connector, a Micro USB, and 2 Lightning connectors—making it compatible with a wide range of devices.
Please keep the cord in the computer bag so that it’s available for all DL volunteers to use. It will come in handy when working with a customer who needs to transfer data from their device or if their device has a low battery. I will be dropping them off at locations during my site visits.
Third, mark your calendars! Literacy Rochester is hosting a fun-filled fundraiser on Tuesday, May 20th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Parkside Whispering Pines Miniature Golf in Irondequoit.
Bring the whole family for an evening of unlimited mini golf to support our adult literacy programs. I have added the flyer with pricing details below. We hope to see you there!
Social Security Website:
By now, many of you may have heard that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is transitioning its online login system. Users will now be required to sign in using Login.gov or ID.me, replacing the previous username and password method.
This change primarily affects users who created their SSA accounts before September of 2021, as the “Sign in with Social Security Username” option will be phased out later this year. Users are strongly encouraged to make the switch to Login.gov or ID.me as soon as possible.
With this update, I anticipate an increase in customers seeking assistance, so please be prepared for questions related to account access and setup.
Also, please remind customers that if they need to visit a Social Security office in person, they may be required to present a REAL ID or a valid passport after May 7th, as SSA offices are federal buildings. It’s a good idea to share this in advance so customers aren’t turned away at the door.
Site Locations CLOSED In May:
- Sully Library will be CLOSED on Wednesday May 7th for Staff Training
- Monroe Branch CLOSED on Wednesday May 21st for Staff Training
- All locations will be CLOSED on Monday May 26th in Observation of Memorial Day
- Winton Branch Library will be CLOSED on Friday May 30th for Staff Training
In-Service:
Our next in-service training will be held virtually in June, making it accessible for all digital volunteers to attend. During this session, we’ll be reviewing the process for setting up and using Login.gov and ID.me, in light of the recent changes to the Social Security Administration’s login requirements. More details, including the date and time, will be shared soon. We encourage everyone to attend, as this will help prepare you for supporting customers with these updates.
Literacy Rochester:
The LR office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm. Please feel free to call the office if you need any assistance 585-473-3030. You can also contact me directly at Lroe@literacyrochester.org or on the DL Cell at 585-606-9523.
LR CLOSED:
Thursday – May 15th – Staff will be out volunteering for Day of Caring
Monday May 26th – In Observation of Memorial Day
Thank you for your commitment to empowering others through digital literacy. Together, we’re bridging the digital divide!
