TechTalk: an Inter-generational Discussion and Book Group
The Local Challenge
Young people often report feeling confident about their digital safety, while adults around them do not. This generational rift creates tension: children are growing up in a world shaped by misinformation, online prejudice, and risks such as exploitation, while parents and professionals struggle to keep pace. In East Lothian, surveys reveal rising concern—yet only one in five parents feel very confident about their child’s online activity. With library staff and teachers also reporting frequent issues, there is both a challenge and an opportunity for young people and adults to learn from and with each other.
The Initiative
Musselburgh Library, in partnership with Connected Communities, responds to this challenge by creating Tech Talk, a programme where young people, families, and professionals collaborate to foster honest conversations about technology. Books about digital life serve as a springboard for creative discussion. Children aged 9–12, alongside parents and professionals, meet regularly, supported by older peers as mentors. Together, participants co-create resources such as reading lists, zines, or digital content. The library provides space and expertise, while Connected Communities identifies participants and supports delivery with a trained youth worker and external input on digital literacy and safety.
What’s Next?
Tech Talk will strengthen Musselburgh Library as a trusted space for intergenerational learning, while addressing concerns about youth isolation and antisocial behaviour. By engaging 2,500 people directly and many more through social media, newsletters, and schools, the initiative will empower families to make informed choices about digital life. Young people will gain confidence as leaders and co-creators, parents and professionals will feel better equipped to guide them, and staff will develop expertise to sustain these conversations. The project will also provide a pilot model for other libraries and community groups, amplifying its impact across East Lothian and beyond.
Contact theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu if you have any questions or want to be connected with the team behind the project.
