The Bluffton Public Library is offering a new service, Northstar Digital Literacy, through the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN).  

Northstar Digital Literacy is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their skills with computers, software, or technology. Northstar is available 24/7 online and can be used in the library or at home. Guided lessons allow you to learn at your own pace and subjects cover everything from email and computer basics to social media.

Ohio library access to Northstar is funded through a federal Institute of Museum and Library Services ARPA grant awarded by the State Library of Ohio.

For more information, visit the library at 145 S. Main St., visit www.blufftonpubliclibrary.org or email: [email protected]. 

From Northstar Digital Literacy

"Northstar Digital Literacy defines basic skills needed to perform tasks on computers and online. Online, self-guided modules assess the ability of individuals to perform tasks based on these skills. Included are basic computer digital literacy standards and modules in three main areas:

Essential Computer Skills - Basic Computer Skills, Internet Basics, Using Email, Windows OS, Mac OS

Essential Software Skills – Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs

Using Technology in Daily Life - Social Media, Information Literacy, Career Search Skills, Supporting K-12 Distance Learning, Your Digital Footprint.

"Northstar was developed in response to the needs of job seekers who may lack the digital literacy skills needed to seek, obtain, and retain employment, as well as to perform other tasks in daily life. Northstar allows end users to freely take the assessments from anywhere via our homepage, but individuals can instead go to an approved testing location and obtain the Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate when they pass assessments. Certificates provide an important credential for employment, as even entry-level jobs increasingly require basic computer skills. Certificates also certify end user ability to complete computer skills needed in higher education, and demonstrate their ability to use social media and online information thoughtfully. If individuals do not pass, personalized assessment results provide a roadmap to relevant instruction, allowing them to retake the assessment once they have mastered the necessary skills. Northstar also includes learning resources to support adult learners to master the standards outlined. Learning resources include classroom curriculum that can be used in person or remotely, and Northstar Online Learning, which provides self-directed instruction and practice for individuals.

"Northstar is used by over 2515 Adult Basic Education programs, colleges, nonprofits, workforce centers, government agencies, and businesses. There is no cost to complete the assessments on the Northstar homepage."

For more information, check out our webpage or email: [email protected].