Delivering the National Databank with Leeds Libraries

Promoting access to free data

Our September Hub of the Month was Leeds Libraries after Sarah from the National Databank team nominated them for their impact and dedication to helping people access free mobile data in communities across the city.

Liam Garnett and his team actively promote the National Databank at team meetings across Leeds City Council making sure other departments know about the Databank offer so that they can signpost people who need support to libraries for free mobile data. Their partnership with 100% Digital Leeds has also been really helpful.

Impact of digital support at scale

Liam Garnett from Leeds Libraries said:

"Being part of the National Databank network has supported our digital inclusion massively, and we have been able to gift over £100,000's worth of data to help those at risk of digital exclusion to get online. As libraries are open to anyone and have a reputation as trusted institutions among our more underserved communities, we have been able to reach and help a diverse range of people.”

Demand increased really quickly across their libraries, meaning they needed to re-order sims every week at one point!

Who they're supporting

“One library user, a recent arrival to the UK, was a trained dentist in their home country but to practice here in the UK needed to complete an exam. While our public PCs and wifi were of some support, she also had childcare issues. By providing her with a SIM, she was able to continue her coursework at home, pass the exam, and acquire a job in a local dental practice. This is just one of hundreds of stories of how being part of the National Databank has helped our communities."

Learning from other libraries

Liam told us that the Libraries Digital Inclusion Forum on Basecamp is a great space for learning from other services, finding solutions to common challenges and sharing tips!