Beeston Library in Nottinghamshire is helping local residents learn about artificial intelligence and improve their online skills as part of a new government-backed pilot. The library on Foster Avenue is one of four local library authorities chosen to lead the drive, which aims to make sure people are not left behind by fast-moving technology.
The programme is a national, government-backed pilot led by Libraries Connected and funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), and is being delivered locally in Nottinghamshire by Inspire (Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries). Inspire is offering free sessions where people can learn about new technology, try out VR showcases and other immersive tech, and get help with basic computer tasks.
Residents can find help during the regular Places of Welcome sessions held every Friday morning from 10:30am to 12:00pm at Beeston Library. According to Marketing Nottingham, the project also includes media‑literacy work on mis‑ and disinformation and sessions covering the benefits and risks of AI tools, including guidance on using them safely.
The pilot is financed by a £310,400 grant through the government’s Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund and is scheduled to run from November 2025 to March 2026. While Beeston Library is hosting these additional activities, there are no reports of reduced opening hours or changes to normal library services.
