Apply Now: Digital Pathways: Online Health Literacy Programming for Adults

ALA Public Programs Office

With more adults than ever turning to the internet for health information, libraries are stepping into a vital role as a trusted community resource for online health and wellness information. While the internet is a critical resource, navigating it can be overwhelming for those without the necessary skills. Enhancing online health literacy is essential to reducing healthcare disparities and empowering adults to take an active role in managing their health.

To serve in this capacity for their communities, libraries need readily available tools and resources focused on effectively creating online health literacy programming for adults. Through Digital Pathways: Online Health Literacy Programming for Adults, ALA has created a toolkit for library workers with ready-made programming ideas and resources.

12 public libraries to be selected for pilot program

In collaboration with UnitedHealthcare, the ALA Public Programs Office is launching an exciting pilot program to implement this toolkit. Over a nine-month period, 12 public libraries will be selected to receive a resource package and hands-on support to strengthen their online health literacy offerings. Participating libraries will use the toolkit to host at least three adult health literacy programs in their communities and will play a key role in shaping the future of this initiative by sharing feedback with project evaluators.

apply now

Applications are open now through January 7, 2026.

Selected libraries will receive:

  • Professional development resources, including a practitioner’s guide, onboarding webinar and four professional development webinars.
  • $8,000 stipend to cover costs associated with implementing at least three online health literacy programs from the programming guide. Eligible expenses may include hiring a facilitator, buying additional technology or purchasing materials recommended in the practitioner’s guide.
  • Access to a community of practice for participating library staff to ask questions, share expertise, offer advice and engage in peer sharing and learning.

For more information on this project and to apply by January 7, please visit: https://www.ala.org/tools/programming/digitalpathways.

This project is developed with the support of UnitedHealthcare.