If your library is just beginning to explore digital services, you're not alone. Many libraries around the world are taking their first steps toward providing more accessible, modern, and inclusive tools for their communities.
Starting doesn’t have to be hard. You don’t need a big budget or a tech team. Just a clear roadmap, a bit of curiosity, and the desire to serve your users better.
This guide is your introduction to the world of library technology and how to build a sustainable, future-ready digital library from the ground up.
Here’s your step-by-step guide—from simple to advanced.
Stage 1: Build the Basics (Start Here)
In a small Welsh town, a library team taped a QR code on the wall next to a brand-new Wi-Fi router. That same week, a group of teens sat quietly doing homework while an older patron watched a documentary on her tablet for the first time. It was the beginning of something big, with just one device.
That’s where your digital journey starts: one connection at a time. This foundation is essential for any digital library setup.
- Public Wi-Fi
- Start by checking if your current internet plan and router can support guest usage. Upgrade to a business-grade plan if needed.
- Set up a separate "guest" Wi-Fi network for patrons. Use a router with bandwidth management and content filtering.
- Create a branded welcome screen (also known as a captive portal) that users see before connecting. Include terms of use and safety reminders.
- Post connection instructions in multiple languages near entrance areas and service desks.
- Public Access Computers
- Choose durable desktop or all-in-one PCs with long-term warranties. Start with 1 or 2 stations if space is limited.
- Install essential software like web browsers, office tools (LibreOffice, Microsoft Office), and PDF readers.
- Use session management software (e.g., MyPC) to limit time and manage queues.
- Enable auto-reset features or use software like Deep Freeze to erase user data and restore default settings after each session.
- Printing, Scanning, and Copying
- Choose a multifunction printer (MFP) with scan-to-email, print-from-USB, and mobile printing support.
- Set up cloud printing with services like Princh, PaperCut, or ePRINTit to allow mobile and remote printing.
- Add easy-to-follow printed guides in large fonts, with pictures for common tasks like scanning a document or printing a boarding pass.
- Digital Literacy Help
- Designate a regular time each week for tech support, such as “Digital Drop-In Wednesdays.”
- Use a sign-up sheet or offer one-on-one help. Focus on common requests: setting up email, using a smartphone, applying for benefits online.
- Partner with local schools or volunteer groups to bring in tech-savvy helpers who can assist patrons.
Read: Seinäjoki City Library’s project with students promotes digital inclusion for the elderly
A student is teaching an elderly person at their home how to use the Hublet Tablet in the Seinäjoki City Library project
Stage 2: Expand to Self-Service Library Technology
Redbridge Central Library added Hublet Tablets and watched a new community form: seniors teaching each other Spanish via Duolingo. Suddenly, the language wasn’t the only thing they were learning. They were learning confidence with technology.
As you expand your digital library, focus on tools that allow users to help themselves.
- Tablet Lending
Besides offering PC access, many libraries find that tablets provide a flexible, user-friendly way to meet growing digital demand. Once your basic digital services are in place and tablet use becomes more common, tablet lending is a great next step.
- Start with a small set of general-use tablets. Pre-install essential apps like browsers, eBooks, and language learning tools.
- Assign staff to manually distribute and sanitise the tablets between uses, and offer guidance to patrons who need help.
Read: How to use regular tablets for public use
Once tablet usage grows, consider switching to a self-service model with the Hublet Solution. Personalise content, manage all tablets in one place, and ensure they're always charged, updated, and hygienic with automatic updates and self-disinfection — all designed to save staff time.
- E-books and Digital Magazines
- Choose an e-book platform such as OverDrive, Libby, digital magazine like PressReader or movies like filmfriend. Link the service through your website, catalogue, tablets.
- Promote digital collections through email newsletters, in-branch posters, your library tablets and on social media.
- Offer short onboarding sessions to show patrons how to use the apps.
- Virtual Reference Chat
- Set up chat services on your website using free or low-cost tools like Tawk.to, LibChat, or Zoho.
- Assign staff to monitor chat during open hours and use a shared FAQ document for consistency.
- Promote chat support on signage, loan receipts, and your homepage.
- Dedicated Tech Stations
- Equip a few PCs or tablets specifically for tasks like job applications, resume building, or access to government services.
- Bookmark relevant websites on browsers and include printed guides for frequently used services.
- Make space private and distraction-free for focused use.
What’s Next?
Now that your foundational services and self-service tools are in place, it’s time to explore what’s possible when your digital library becomes a hub for innovation and accessibility.
👉 Wait for Part 2: Advanced Digital Tools to Transform Your Library — where we cover makerspaces, virtual reality, mobile apps, and more ways to connect your community.