“Imagine helping someone send their first e-mail or Facebook message to their grandkids the other side of the world!” says Simon Rhys-Phillips, a digital champion for Pembrokeshire’s Library Service.

Simon is one of the library service’s team of digital volunteers - people who help others to gain the skills and confidence they need to use a computer or tablet.

“It has brought home to me just how important digital skills are in today’s society and how concerned some people are about being ‘left behind’,” said Simon, who has volunteered at Tenby Library for over a year.

Now, he and other helpers are encouraging more people to consider volunteering with the library service, which has just launched a new recruitment drive.

“You don’t need to be an IT genius and you’ll be making a real difference to people’s lives,” he said. “Also, it’s a great way to learn new skills yourself!”

Brian, who volunteers at Haverfordwest Library, is also encouraging.

“I like to call what I do ‘Slow Computing’ as many people are shown how to do things by computer-savvy children or grandchildren whereas I make sure that they do it ‘hands-on’ at their pace.”

Economy librarian Kath Woolcock said digital volunteers have become an integral part of the library service.

“Our team currently deliver weekly Gadget Drop In sessions at five different libraries,” she said. “They also deliver a short beginner’s computer course called First Click, which tend to run once a month.

“If you enjoy helping people and have a good all-around basic knowledge of using computers, tablets and the internet, then this may be the volunteering opportunity for you.”

Meanwhile, Pembroke Dock Library volunteers Anne and Mel say watching a whole new digital world opening up to people, and helping others to try and resolve their gadget equipment issues has been ‘very rewarding’. 

Clr. Neil Prior, cabinet member for transformation and IT, praised the digital programme provided by the volunteers.

“It’s a great initiative which hopefully helps to reduce the digital divide and show that it’s never too late to get online,” he said.

Pembrokeshire libraries are currently seeking digital volunteers to deliver sessions in the following specific libraries; Fishguard, Neyland and Tenby (other libraries may be considered on application).

If you are interested, please contact Kath Woolcock for more information and an application form at [email protected] or 01437 776098.