Free digital support sessions available during Get Online Week at North Northamptonshire Council libraries

09 October 2026

Residents are invited to discover new digital skills, build confidence with technology and access support at a series of free events taking place in North Northamptonshire Council managed libraries as part of the ‘Get Online Week’.

The programme of activities will take place across council managed libraries in Corby, Irthlingborough, Kettering, Oundle, Rushden and Wellingborough. Starting on Monday 19 October, the sessions are set to help residents make the most of digital technology in a friendly and welcoming environment.

‘Get Online Week’ is a national campaign from The Good Things Foundation that recognises not everyone has the skills, confidence or equipment they need to participate fully in an increasingly digital society. Libraries are uniquely placed to help bridge this gap, offering trusted community spaces where residents can access technology, receive support and learn new skills.

Throughout the week, residents in North Northamptonshire will have opportunities to receive practical support with digital devices, discover online services and learn about staying safe online. Library colleagues and digital specialists will be on hand to offer support and help with questions.

Digital technology is now part of everyday life, but we know that not everyone feels confident using it, whether that's accessing online services, using a smartphone or tablet, or knowing how to stay safe online. Our libraries play an important role in helping residents develop digital skills, access online services and gain confidence in a welcoming environment.

Get Online Week is a fantastic opportunity for people to ask questions and discover the wide range of support available locally, whether they are taking their first steps online or looking to build on existing skills.Cllr Gregory Wilcox, Executive Member for Communities and Rural Affairs at North Northamptonshire Council.

Our corporate plan sets out a vision for smarter, faster and fairer digital services. And this includes helping residents access services online while ensuring they can still speak to someone when they need to. The sessions in our libraries are a great example of how we are helping people build confidence with technology.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council.

All of the venues offer accessible facilities. Anyone with specific accessibility requirements is encouraged to contact their local library in advance.

For further information about Get Online Week activities, you can view the Events Listing information below or visit your local council-managed library. You can also call 0300 126 3000 or visit the council website. 

All of the sessions are free to attend. Booking is not required.

Event Listings

Corby 

Corby Library will offer a digital information display alongside an AbilityNet digital skills training session on 20 October, providing advice, guidance and practical support to help residents make the most of digital technology and online services. 
Event details: Tuesday 20 October, 11am to 12:30pm at Corby Library.

Irthlingborough

Irthlingborough Library will host two events during Get Online Week. On Monday 19 October, Nationwide Building Society will lead a Digital Confidence session covering topics including spotting online scams, making video calls, managing online bank accounts and setting up tablets, phones and computers. Later in the week, U3A Higham and Rushden will offer a computer support drop-in session, giving residents practical help with computer-related queries. 
Event details: Digital Confidence: Monday 19 October, 2pm to 4pm and Computer support drop-in: Thursday 22 October, 10am to 12 noon

Kettering 

Kettering Library will welcome AbilityNet for a free digital skills session aimed at older people and disabled adults. The session, Introduction to the Internet and Staying Safe Online, will take place on Wednesday 21 October and will provide practical guidance to help attendees build confidence online and develop their digital skills. Participants are encouraged to bring along a fully charged smart phone or iPad/tablet device.
Event details: Wednesday 21 October, 11am at Kettering Library.

Oundle 

Oundle Library will host a digital skills training session delivered by AbilityNet on 20 October, helping residents develop confidence in using digital technology. The library also continues to offer ongoing IT support sessions in partnership with Oundle School every Wednesday, 2:30pm to 3:30pm during term time. 
Event details: Tuesday 20 October, 1:30pm to 3pm at Oundle Library.

Rushden 

Rushden Library will host a free Digital Day where residents can receive support with computers, tablets and smartphones, explore virtual reality experiences, find out more about online services and discover digital resources available through the library. Taking place on Tuesday 20 October, the event will also showcase how technology can support health, independence, learning and everyday life.

The Rushden Library Digital Day will be supported by a range of partners including Citizens Advice, Digital Northants, Northamptonshire Police Cyber Crime Team, Healthwatch North Northamptonshire, Family Hubs and several specialist digital support organisations.
Event details: Tuesday 20 October, 10am to 4pm at Rushden Library.

Wellingborough

Wellingborough Library will hold a drop-in session on Thursday 22 October where residents can receive support using digital services as well as library and partner apps, helping them access a range of services, information and resources online. 
Event details: Thursday 22 October, 3:30pm to 5pm at Wellingborough Library.