Technology
The Digital Resource Your Library Card Just Unlocked
While international headlines focus on global volatility, Billings residents are quietly leveraging a robust local digital literacy network to sharpen their professional skills.
How we reported this
In an era where remote access and information fluency are professional requirements, the Billings Public Library has expanded its digital infrastructure to provide more than just shelf space. The institution has become a primary hub for technical upskilling, offering residents free access to sophisticated learning platforms including Mango Languages, which hosts modules for 34 distinct languages, and Creativebug for specialized craft and design instruction. These tools are available to anyone with a library card and an active email address, marking a strategic pivot toward home-based professional development.
Bridging the Connectivity Gap
For many residents, the primary barrier to accessing these digital tools remains stable home internet. To address this, the library operates a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot checkout program. These devices serve as a physical bridge for those currently lacking reliable connectivity. The library manages the distribution of these units through a dedicated curbside pickup window, which remains operational Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This logistical support ensures that the library’s online catalog, which ranges from Universal Class modules to advanced research resources, remains accessible to the broader community.
Structured Literacy for the Next Generation
Digital literacy is also being formalized within the Billings Public Schools system. At Ben Steele Middle School, the DIGIT program-led by Josh Haber-provides a structured framework for students in grades 6 through 8 to develop their technical proficiency. Complementing this classroom work, the library provides free, unrestricted access to ABDO’s digital bookshelf for all PreK-12 students. This resource bypasses the standard library card requirement; users simply enter the username and password "2123800" to gain entry into a vast repository of educational material.
For those navigating more complex research tasks or needing assistance with digital navigation, the Montana State University Billings library provides supplemental support. Students and residents can reach the Ask Here Desk at (406) 657-1662 or via email at [email protected] to resolve technical hurdles. Whether you are aiming to master a new language via Mango Languages or looking for research guidance, these resources are currently active and available through the library's official portal at billingslibrary.org/386/Online-Learning.