Dunedin Libraries expanding Tech Help programme

Dunedin City Libraries is expanding its popular Tech Help 1-2-1 programme to help address the digital divide.

The City Library launched the initiative in early 2025, supporting residents to navigate an increasingly complex digital world.

In response to growing demand, free drop-in sessions will now be run monthly at five community libraries. In addition, there are daily sessions at the City Library that require bookings.

Beginning at the Blueskin Bay Library today, Wednesday 11 February, the free drop-in sessions provide up to one hour of personalised, one-to-one assistance. Follow-up sessions can also be booked.

The sessions cover a wide range of digital skills, including:

• setting up and using new smartphones
• help with CVs
• online forms
• app installation
• RealMe setup
• email setup
• digital streaming services
• Office 365 online
• general online safety
• guidance on Dunedin Libraries’ digital platforms, including the library app, BorrowBox, Beamafilm, PressReader and ULibrary.

Sarah Gallagher, Director Library Services says, “There are many people who need a little help navigating the digital world. This ranges from staying in contact with family, banking, applying for jobs, accessing services as well as official purposes such as registering to vote or getting a passport.”

“Digital literacy is essential for everyone to be able to participate fully as a resident of Dunedin and a citizen of Aotearoa New Zealand.”

“The service has become an essential resource for bridging the digital divide. By offering patient, practical, one-to-one support at no cost, our Dunedin Libraries staff are helping ensure that everyone – regardless of age or digital confidence – can stay connected and make use of essential online services.”

“In the first month of 2025 alone, eight out of the 15 sessions were dedicated to helping older residents adjust to new phones.“

“We also see many people coming in for help with writing a CV. With CV styles and expectations constantly changing, many have no idea where to begin, and the one-to-one support gives them confidence and guidance.”

Depending on demand, Dunedin Libraries will consider extending the session times.

Tech Help 1 2 1 – session details:

CITY LIBRARY: weekdays between 10.00am - 4.00pm (by appointment, 1st floor)
PORT CHALMERS LIBRARY: 1st Wednesday of the month 1.30pm - 2.30pm
BLUESKIN BAY LIBRARY: 2nd Wednesday of the month 2.00pm - 3.00pm
MOSGIEL LIBRARY: 3rd Wednesday of the month 2.00pm - 3.00pm
WAIKOUAITI LIBRARY: 4th Wednesday of the month 2.00pm - 3.00pm
SOUTH DUNEDIN COMMUNITY LIBRARY: 3rd Thursday of the month 2.00pm - 3.00pm

For more information, visit: Events | Dunedin Public Library official website (search for “tech help”)

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