Libraries across Barking and Dagenham are set to undergo a major digital transformation thanks to £410,215 secured from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund. The programme will turn the following six libraries, Barking, Dagenham, Valence, Marks Gate, Chadwell Heath, and Thames View into Digital Inclusion Hubs offering free access to devices, data, and digital skills training for residents of all ages.
The project is being led by Ekota Academy, a well-established local charity that delivers vital health and wellbeing programmes for young people and older residents throughout the borough. Working in partnership with Barking and Dagenham Council’s Library Services, Ekota will support more than 3,000 residents to get online, access essential services, and build confidence in the digital world.
This initiative directly supports the borough’s Libraries Strategy and Digital Strategy, ensuring libraries continue to evolve as dynamic, inclusive and community-centred spaces.
The project introduces a new, innovative model of partnership between the voluntary sector and the local authority. Instead of a council led approach, Ekota Academy secured the national funding with full endorsement from Barking and Dagenham Council.
Mizanur R, Chief Executive of Ekota Academy, said: “We are extremely proud to have secured this funding for Barking and Dagenham. It demonstrates the power of genuine partnership between the voluntary sector and local government. Libraries are already trusted community hubs, and by turning them into digital centres we’re connecting residents not only to technology, but to opportunity jobs, education, public services, and everyday life. This project brings local strategies to life and sets a blueprint for collaboration that could be adopted nationwide.”
The programme will provide:
- 720 laptops and tablets (120 for each library)
- 1,200 free data SIM packages for residents in need
- Digital skills training for 3,000 people
- 30 trained volunteer Digital Champions offering hands on help
Led by the Ekota team, each library will host regular drop-ins and workshops, covering skills such as setting up emails, completing online job applications, accessing NHS and Council services, and using everyday digital tools safely and confidently.
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “I am proud the council is partnering with Ekota Academy to unlock almost half a million pounds of government funding to build on our digital inclusion offer through our libraries. Even more residents will now be able access the tools, skills, and support they need to use the internet and digital services - and grow their confidence navigating the online world.”
Local people have welcomed the programme and the renewed investment in community spaces.
Fatima B, a Dagenham resident, said: “Not everyone can afford a laptop or data. Being able to learn digital skills at the library makes such a difference. It’s opening up opportunities for people of all ages.”
Humfrey D, from Barking, added: “Libraries have always been places to learn, but now they’re moving fully into the modern age. It feels like they’re becoming part of everyday life again, not something old fashioned or forgotten.”
The Digital Inclusion Project will run from November 2025 to March 2026, with evaluation completed in April 2026. However, the impact aims to last far beyond the funded period.
When the programme concludes :
- All devices will remain as permanent library loan stock.
- All six libraries will continue as National Databank centres, offering free mobile data to residents in need.
- The partnership model between Ekota Academy and LBBD will remain in place to support future community initiatives.
Sultana R, Chair of Ekota Academy, said: “This is a long term investment in people. We’re building digital confidence, training volunteers, and giving libraries new purpose and energy. This isn’t just a project, it’s a community movement powered by partnership and technology.”