Digifest returns for a 4th year

Digifest, which aims to inspire the next generation of coders and creators, is back for another year!

Throughout the whole of February there will be lots of events taking place across the library service for children aged four to 14. Some events are one-off specials, such as a Lego Stop-Motion event, and the chance to use the Codeapillar or a Coding Critter to start learning about programming. There will also be a chance to have a taster session of the Code Club.

The free workshops will run throughout the month and hope to spark an interest in technology among Norfolk's youngest residents.

Digifest works within Norfolk County Council's Digital Inclusion Strategy and helps young people with the use of creative digital technologies, aiming to inspire them to pursue a career in a digital industry.

Cllr Margaret Dewsbury, cabinet member for communities and partnerships, said: "Our libraries provide a fantastic digital offering all year round, and the month of Digifest is the perfect excuse to get inspired and try your hand at coding and robotics.

"Making sure that everyone in Norfolk is digitally included is a top priority for the council. We know that as a rural county we need to work hard to connect people together, and young people joining in Digifest will help to encourage them into the vital digital jobs of the future."

Alongside Digifest, Norfolk Libraries offer a whole host of digital initiatives for all ages, including:

• A suite of apps, such as Press Reader, which allows you to read digital versions of magazines and newspapers, and Libby, which lets you borrow digital copies of books
• Digital Health Hubs which give people 1:1 support to get access to online health services
• The National Databank which provides adults in need with 6-months of free data via a SIM card
• A team of Digital Champions who help people, usually 1:1, to improve their computer skills
• Code Clubs and Robotics Clubs

Norfolk Libraries are partnering with CreativeUEA on 'Digital Creativity: Using technology in work and life', a series of talks led by researchers and academics from across the University that will explore exciting new digital developments and the role of technology in all walks of life, including leisure, study and work.

John Gordon, Academic Lead, CreativeUEA said: "CreativeUEA is excited to be working with Norfolk Library and Information Service on a fun and thought-provoking series of events that will give people across our county the chance to experience new creative technologies first hand at libraries across Norfolk. Our hope is that the series will broaden understanding about how digital technology can positively impact life and careers, at the same time exploring new uses and applications for familiar technology and devices."

So why not join the library and explore everything we have to offer at www.norfolk.gov.uk/jointhelibrary.

To explore events taking place across our libraries throughout Digifest, visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/digifest.