Libraries provide an informal learning network that complements formal education and extends far beyond it. They are the street-corner university, feeding into and sustaining a culture of lifelong learning. They support you, the self-motivated learner, in your pursuit of learning in its widest sense throughout your life.
Learning resources
Our libraries provide access to a wide range of learning resources, including:
- A comprehensive book stock, including multi-media study packs
- Access to electronic reference resources and the Library Enquiry Centre from all our libraries and, if you have internet access, from the comfort of your own home
- Free use of computers in libraries, including free internet access
- An on-line catalogue listing over one million items, including those of neighbouring and regional library services
- On-line reservation facilities, enabling you, from your home or workplace, to reserve the items you want for collection from the library of your choice, following notification of their availability
- Access to the resources of 22 university and 11 college libraries in the region via your public library membership
Introductory IT sessions
In conjunction with our Adult and Community Learning Section and Filton College most libraries offer free computer taster classes, designed to help library users develop their IT skills. If you know very little about computers these sessions are an ideal introduction. Using the computers and learning resources available in the library you can learn new skills or update what you already know without having to go to college or attend formal classes.
If you want to learn how to produce a report or letter, how the internet works or how to send an email, the tutor will have you surfing in no time. The library computers can then be booked free of charge to enable you to practise between sessions.
The classes are very informal, with groups of about eight to 12 learners and run for between eight to 15 weeks, depending on the nature of the course. Each session lasts around two to three hours; most are delivered during the day, on library closed days, but some libraries offer early evening classes. These classes are generally free and are very popular, with waiting lists in many libraries. If you are interested contact your local library without delay and get your name on the list.
Several libraries are working in partnership with Age Concern to deliver one-to-one IT sessions for retired people using trained volunteers. There is a nominal charge for these dedicated sessions, where you choose the areas in which you need some support, on which the volunteer will then focus with you individually over around three to five weekly sessions of just under an hour each. Again, these are very popular and there is often a waiting list.
Other informal learning opportunities
Other informal sessions that run in some libraries, again often using the library computers as an aid to learning, include researching family and local history. Libraries also work in partnership with local societies, such as photographic clubs, who give talks and demonstrations in the library on topics such as using a digital camera. If your society would like to share its skills with the wider community then chat to the staff at your local library who might be keen to host an evening with you – it’s a great way to recruit new members.
Libraries also support learning initiatives from the BBC, such as their very popular WebWise, an online basic introduction to using the internet.
Information on learning opportunities elsewhere
Whether you want to know what evening classes are happening locally, where to find a class to help improve your numeracy or literacy skills, what university might be the best choice for your son or daughter - whatever you need to find out to reach your learning goal your local library is a good starting point.
For further details on any learning initiative please ask library staff or contact Michael Duffy, library team manager, on 01454 868450 or email him at michael.duffy@southglos.gov.uk
Other useful contacts
Learner Helpline: 0800 923 0323
This helpine helps you to make informed choices about learning and work by providing information and advice on areas such as funding options, courses, re-training, and career development.
There is also a page on the BBC website dedicated to adult learning: http://www.bbc.co.uk/learning