A TOWN library and its volunteers who helps others develop their computer skills have scooped prestigious regional awards.
Barrow Library and its volunteer were winners in the Go On North West 'I made a difference' awards in Manchester.
The awards recognise excellence in building people’s digital skills .
Colin Swan was named ‘Digital Champion’, while Barrow Library scooped the award for outstanding digital project. The double win is a first for Cumbria and puts the council right at the forefront of local authorities offering the best support and signposting for those people who are not used to using a computer.
Mr Swan has volunteered with Barrow Library since 2009. He pioneered the ‘job club’ so people looking for work had a place to go to train in IT skills to help them research and apply for jobs online. He also assists members of the public in the use of tablets and laptops. Over the last six years, Colin has volunteered for more than 1,500 hours and tutored around 400 learners.
Barrow Library itself has become a centre of excellence for helping people develop their computer skills. The library has been running its Get Online initiative as part of the UKOnline project for six years.
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