Get 1-on-1 Tech Help from a Digital Navigator

The City of Hillsboro Public Library is thrilled to welcome Cathin (left) and Zhulma (right), our new American Connection Corps Digital Navigators.

Cathin and Zhulma are here to support the community with drop-in tech help and will also lead learning sessions on useful topics, including email basics, cybersecurity, and more.

Get to know them and learn more about their role as a Digital Navigator.

Tell us more about you, Cathin & Zhulma.

Cathin: My name is Cathin (they/them), and I'm serving as your digital navigator at Brookwood Library. I have a bachelor's degree in technical theatre from Portland State University, where I studied stage management and design. I love writing science fiction and fantasy stories, designing tabletop games, traveling for scenery and good food, and enjoying a good story through books, video games, movies, or TV shows. I live in Beaverton with my husband and our two cats.

Zhulma: I am originally from Quito, Ecuador, and have lived in Hillsboro for the past nine years with my husband and our two children. I hold a Computer Science degree and recently earned a certification in Early Childhood Education. As a 2023 Civic Leadership Academy alum and an AmeriCorps member, I am passionate about empowering my community through digital skills. I co-lead the Early Learning STEAM Wonderland program in Washington County, where we serve hundreds of families with hands-on learning experiences. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending time with my kids.

What is a digital navigator?

Cathin: A digital navigator is someone who serves the community by empowering people with digital skills and the confidence to use devices like personal smartphones or computers in their everyday lives. Whether it's helping someone set up their first email account, teaching someone how to find recipes on the internet, or learning how to use your computer, I'm here to help you get to where you want to go.

Zhulma: A Digital Navigator is someone who helps bridge the digital divide by supporting individuals in building confidence with technology. They offer one-on-one, in-person assistance with basic computer and smartphone skills, setting up email and social media accounts, staying safe online, searching for jobs, and accessing local resources. Their goal is to help people feel more comfortable and confident using technology in everyday life.

What experiences in your life led you to work in digital literacy and navigation?

Cathin: My guiding principle in life is to build elevators and tables. No matter where I go in life, I make pathways to help others get to where I am and make sure there's space for them, too. To that end, my work history includes retail customer service, Quality Assurance testing for tech companies, and administrative and help desk support for early childcare education providers. I was also a volunteer at the Collaboratory at Brookwood Library for its first two years.

Zhulma: When I moved to the U.S., it was hard to stay in touch with my family in Ecuador. My parents didn't know how to use phones or computers, so it was frustrating for all of us. Every time I visited, I tried to teach them the basics so we could stay connected. I saw how upset they felt when they couldn't get help easily. That made me realize that learning technology isn't just about age - it's also about having access and support. I've always liked helping people, and I think the library is the best place to do that. It's a safe and welcoming space for everyone, no matter how old you are. If you need help, you can find it here.

How does your job directly benefit Hillsboro community members?

Cathin: My service benefits Hillsboro community members by helping them develop skills to feel empowered in their daily lives and more confident when using their smartphones or computers. When a patron comes in for an appointment, I ask them what they would like to be able to do at the end of our 45-minute session. People can send text messages and photos to their loved ones, connect with friends on social media, or participate in telehealth video calls with newfound confidence.

Zhulma: My job as a Digital Navigator helps Hillsboro community members feel supported and confident when using technology. Many people see the library as a safe and welcoming place - not just for books, but for learning and getting help. I work one-on-one with patrons to build digital skills that can help them apply for jobs, check medical information online, and connect with essential community resources. At Shute Park Library, we offer this support in both English and Spanish, with up to two, 45-minute sessions per person. It's a great way to make sure everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed.

Get One-on-One Tech Help Now

Brookwood Library and Shute Park Library offer free one-on-one tech help appointments with a Digital Navigator. Shute Park Library's Digital Navigator is bilingual in Spanish and English.

• Make an appointment online or by phone at 503-615-6500.
• Each appointment is 45 minutes. Two appointments are permitted per week.
• A library card is not required.

American Connection Corps

The American Connection Corps, an AmeriCorps national service program of Lead For America, is focused on closing the digital divide and advancing economic prosperity in rural and legacy communities across the nation.