The App Library project: technology and media education for teens

The lives of young people today are strongly affected by information and communication technologies (ICTs). Used effectively, ICTs can complement school and other, further education, support psycho-social development and contribute to social inclusion. To support these processes of teenagers (13-18 y.o.) especially those who come from modest families, County Library "Alexandru D. Xenopol" Arad (Romania) implemented a new kind of library service focused on digital media education and promotion of the use of free software. The paper presents experiences obtained through this “App Library” project, which was funded by the EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries) Public library Innovation Programme (EIFL-PLIP). Through the project the library aims to give young people knowledge and practical skills in using digital media; to develop their critical thinking skills and enable them to express themselves online properly and effectively. During the first six months of service provision, over 100 teenagers attended library after-school training sessions. The trainees learnt how to verify and critically assess information, how to create multimedia content online and how to communicate effectively in social networks. Workshops were based on free software like Ubuntu Linux, LibreOffice Writer and Impress, GIMP and OpenShot. The paper details the experience of this project, explores lessons learnt, and suggest that the “App Library” experience offers a model for other libraries interested in media literacy training for young people, and in using free software and Creative Commons to support