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Goldfields Libraries is now eSmart accredited! | Goldfields Library Corporation

Goldfields Libraries is now eSmart accredited!

Tuesday 15 January 2019

eSmart, an initiative of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, uses a cultural change approach to improve cyber safety and reduce cyber bullying.

There are three eSmart programs – eSmart Schools, eSmart Libraries and the eSmart Digital Licence. The Alannah & Madeline Foundation and the Telstra Foundation formed a partnership in 2012 to develop and implement eSmart Libraries – one of Australia’s most significant community cyber safety initiatives.

The eSmart Libraries program provides a framework for libraries, staff and library users to help integrate better cyber safety practices and promote the safe use of online technology in communities.

“Our libraries see more than 1.4 million visitors each year and with an increasing demand for public computers, internet and wi-fi, it’s important that we understand how to stay safe online,” says Goldfields Libraries CEO Mark Hands.

Throughout 2018 we worked towards our accreditation by:

  • Understanding the issues faced by our patrons and staff regarding online experiences. We all want to have positive and safe experiences online and we want to support our patrons to achieve this.
  • Reviewing and updating our relevant governance documents to ensure, as an organisation, we are all aware of good online practises and that we collect and store data appropriately.
  • Providing information and resources to our patrons and library members to spread the eSmart message, this includes a series of posters of tips for staying safe online.
  • Exploring ways of connecting with the broader community to provide useful advice and guidance. We do this through regular social media posts, displays at our branches and agencies and through our digital literacy training.

Now that we are eSmart accredited, we will continue to deliver the eSmart message and provide our communities with safe and accessible places to engage online.

For more information and online resources that can assist you in safe cyber use, visit https://www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au/esmartonline and https://www.esmart.org.au/