Montreuil Libraries: Digital Initiatives for a More Inclusive City

Abstract

In Montreuil, near Paris, the public libraries promote social justice and inclusion by helping reduce the digital divide. They help residents develop digital skills through programmes tailored to different audiences. Working with teachers, social workers, trainers, journalists and community organisations, the libraries adapt their spaces and services to strengthen digital skills and media literacy.

Transforming Our Libraries: Tailor-made programmes target teenagers, job seekers, families and seniors. Workshops, games and creative activities, including podcasts, films and AI experiments, transform the libraries into places of learning, creativity and participation.

Transforming Lives: E-parenting initiatives, workshops for seniors, support with administrative procedures and job searches, and equipment loans (computers, printers and Wi-Fi) strengthen digital autonomy and inclusion. Middle-school students develop critical thinking by producing content on social issues such as racism, inequality and fatphobia.

Transforming the Information Landscape: Through media education, fake news awareness, and AI workshops, libraries tackle media concentration. Combined with social support, this human-driven digital access builds critical thinking and fosters a fairer city.