Say Hello to Sara, One of the WCCLS Digital Navigators
WCCLS is pleased to welcome two Digital Navigators who regularly meet with patrons, offering personalized tech support. You can stop by during drop-in hours or make an appointment at most of our member libraries to get help with your personal device, passwords, software, and more.
WCCLS: We’re excited to introduce one of the Digital Navigators, Sara, to you all! Sara, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Sara: I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and am of Yemeni descent. My great grandparents were the first in my family to immigrate to the United States in the 1970s, followed by my grandparents and parents. I am currently a graduate student at OHSU pursuing a master’s degree in public health with a concentration in epidemiology. In my free time, I love to read, eat, try new things, and spend time with my family.
WCCLS: What about the Digital Navigator program sparked your interest?
Sara: I love libraries. Then I saw that the position would be helping people with technology and thought to myself, “I’m pretty good with tech.” The elements of libraries and technology really caught my eye.
WCCLS: Describe what your average day as a Digital Navigator looks like.
Sara: For example, at Beaverton City Library Main, since they operate by appointments, I am able to receive information about a person’s request beforehand, and I get to do some research. As soon as I walk into the library, usually people are already waiting to meet with me! During a one-on-one appointment, I’ll start by chatting with the person, making casual introductions. Then we talk about their tech issue and work together to figure it out. Before the person leaves, I like to write them a summary of what was discussed, just in case they run into the same issue.
WCCLS: Do you have a favorite tech problem that you like to help patrons solve?
Sara: I like to help with changing passwords. It’s a good opportunity to practice good tech habits with patrons, like making sure they either remember or store their passwords in a secure way. Not knowing a password can instantly create so many barriers.
This reminds me of a time I helped someone who did not have access to their email since 2016. When he was finally able to get access to it, he cried because he was so happy. The issue wasn’t even a big one but being able to help him solve it was a big moment because he said multiple people have tried to help him over the years.
WCCLS: Is there a specific topic that you’d like to teach patrons about?
Sara: I’d say cybersecurity – specifically the overall importance of it and how to avoid getting phished. Some people gotten scammed in the past or have had viruses infect their computers by clicking ads they think are real. It may seem like just the basics, but it goes a long way.
WCCLS: What is one thing you are looking forward to accomplishing as a Digital Navigator?
I’m looking forward to helping as many people in the community as possible. I enjoy seeing people leave confidently having learned more. I’d also like to make a handout with common tech questions and answers that libraries can use after I leave. Lastly, I’d love to teach more classes.
Get tech help
American Connection Corps Member, Sara, is available during drop-in hours or by appointment. Check out the events calendar to see where they will be next. If you have questions, please contact your local library.
The Digital Navigator Program is a free service made possible by a partnership between WCCLS and American Connection Corps. The program is funded in part by American Connections Corps, an AmeriCorps program dedicated to advancing economic prosperity by bridging the digital divide.
During the 2024-2025 Digital Navigator program year, 834 people were helped either by appointment or drop-in session. Since there are two Digital Navigators for the 2025-2026 program year, we anticipate serving even more community members!
