In safe hands

GREATER Dandenong Libraries has been recognised as cyber safe.
Library staff, Dandenong Primary School students, police and representatives of the Alannah and Madeline Foundation celebrated the organisation’s eSmart accreditation on Tuesday 9 February, Safer Internet Day.
“Achieving accreditation is the culmination of hard work by our library staff to integrate cyber safety into every aspect of our library operations,” said Mayor Heang Tak.
“Computers, technology and social media are such a large part of the everyday lives of so many residents in Greater Dandenong, I have no doubt the whole community will benefit from this program.“
One-third of all libraries across the nation are involved in the eSmart program.
Alannah and Madeline Foundation CEO Dr Judith Slocombe said Greater Dandenong’s accreditation was a significant milestone in the foundation’s journey towards creating an eSmart Australia, where all Australians are safe, smart and responsible online.
“Being eSmart means knowing how to guard against security and privacy risks online, download content in a legal and ethical way, research and reference information, and manage reputation and relationships in cyberspace,” Dr Slocombe said.
“The Greater Dandenong Library Service’s continuous dedication and enthusiasm for the eSmart program shows that local communities are as committed to promoting cyber safety as we are.
“This is important given almost half the Australian population is a member of their local library and there were 114 million visits in the past year.
“Libraries are a great environment for sharing the best tips to equip Australians from all walks of life with the skills to be safe online.”
Families can find out more about how to keep their children safe at a free cybersafety session at Springvale Library on Friday 18 March, which is the National Day Against Bullying and Violence.