State of Hawaii Office of the Lt. Governor

10/01/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/01/2025 20:52

DIGITAL NAVIGATOR PROGRAM LAUNCHES AT PUBLIC LIBRARIES THROUGH CONNECT KĀKOU

DIGITAL NAVIGATOR PROGRAM LAUNCHES AT PUBLIC LIBRARIES THROUGH CONNECT KĀKOU

Free one-on-one sessions and resources to help residents build digital skills, launching this October during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2025
HONOLULU - Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke and the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System today announced the launch of the Digital Navigator program, which will be available at these five public libraries beginning October 6.
  • ʻEwa Beach Public and School Library
  • Kailua Public Library
  • Liliha Public Library
  • Waiʻanae Public Library
  • Waipahu Public Library
The program will be expanded to all branches statewide in the coming weeks.
Through the program, residents can schedule free, one-on-one sessions with trained digital navigators to strengthen their digital skills and confidence.
The launch coincides with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Navigators can help patrons with a wide range of topics, including:
  • Identifying online scams, phishing attempts, and suspicious links
  • Setting up secure passwords and accounts
  • Using email and video conferencing tools
  • Accessing telehealth services
  • Filling out online forms, registrations, and digital paperwork
  • Applying for jobs and using job sites
  • Learning to use smartphones, tablets, and laptops more effectively
"Connect Kākou is about ensuring everyone across our state - from Hilo to Hanalei - has access to the internet," said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke. "That means investing in infrastructure and devices, but most importantly, providing the know-how. As we move further into a digital world, it is our kuleana to make sure every resident has the skills and confidence to thrive online. The Digital Navigator program offers a personal, hands-on way to build those skills and strengthen our communities."
The Digital Navigator program will be offered at public libraries across the state through Māpunawai, a local nonprofit focused on digital equity and community-centered technology programs. The one-on-one sessions will be similar to an Apple Genius Bar, providing personalized one-on-one support. Residents can schedule appointments in advance online at book.mapunawai.com or by calling their local library.
"Hawaiʻi's public libraries are community hubs where everyone can read, learn, and connect," said State Librarian Stacey A. Aldrich. "We are delighted that we can expand our services for the community to help people learn the skills they need to thrive in the digital world."
Navigators receive training in various skills to offer in-depth, individualized learning.
"I've seen how even small breakthroughs-like helping someone log into their first video doctor's appointment or teaching them to spot a scam email-can make a huge difference," said Isaia Souza, a digital navigator. "These one-on-one sessions can change lives by giving people the confidence to use technology in ways that matter most to them."
The program is overseen by the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System in partnership with Māpunawai and the University of Hawaiʻi. Those interested in becoming a part-time navigator at their library can learn more at mapunawai.com/contact.
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RESOURCES
Courtesy Office of the Lt. Governor
Link to VNR: iq360.egnyte.com/dl/xDc8B3JRjmdF
Timestamps
  • 0:00 - B-Roll
  • 0:58 - Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke
  • 1:33 - Stacey Aldrich, State Librarian
  • 2:20 - Micah Agpaoa, Digital Navigator
  • 3:23 - Ida Goff, Resident
Link to Photos: flickr.com/photos/197080483@N05/albums/72177720329388241
Link to Full Press Conference: facebook.com/share/v/1BcGrSR5xm/
State of Hawaii Office of the Lt. Governor published this content on October 01, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 02, 2025 at 02:52 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]