Embedding our Learning Offer: Gloucestershire Libraries &

Information

Format

1. Round the table introductions 2. Learning in the Library power

point 3. Scenarios4. Q & A / Discussion / Learning

strategy

Gloucestershire Libraries & Information Background:

•39 Libraries – free membership (2 Reference Libraries)•6 geographic areas•Free computers and internet access all libraries•Free ICT tasters offered by all libraries

3 Policy areas: •Information and Adult Learning•Access and Reader Development •Children and Young People

Learning in Libraries – the past

• Historically informal learning – reading books, magazines, newspapers, reference research, using study space available – impossible to quantify

• Started to offer libraries as venues for community learning and for advisory surgeries from CAB usually when libraries closed

Learning in Libraries - progress

• Computers introduced in all libraries @2002• All staff trained in ICT skills needed to support

customers using equipment (ECDL level)• Started to offer free informal ICT tasters• At same time started to offer advisory

sessions when library open e.g IAG, pensions

Learning in Libraries - progress

• Computers enabled us to offer formal learning via online route e.g. Learn Direct, ECDL

• Offer wide range of online information (VRL) as well as hardcopy resources

• Demand for ICT taster sessions continually growing

Learning in Libraries - initiatives

• Information Society @ 2001/02• Family Learning • Adult Learning • Basic Skills agenda 2003/04- First Choice

collections and Got Kids Get Reading • Created strong partnerships to meet these

needs

Learning in Libraries NOW

• We facilitate access + signpost to other learning providers

• A range of informal and formal learning opportunities happening (Individual and group)

• Needed to clarify our learning role to staff, partners and customers

• Learning Strategy developed 2005, consulted with GCC Adult Education

Learning Strategy Aims and Objectives:

• Confirm learning role in county • Focus, quality, consistency• Integrated approach to learning

within GCC• Establish Action Plan (2009)

Aims and Objectives: • Raise our learning profile • Increase staff awareness & confidence • Develop resources • Improve our infrastructure (ICT, buildings)• Monitor and evaluate • More choice for learner – levels, methods, locations,

chance to sample in library

Who Learns in Libraries?

Scenarios - The Smith family

Mother, Father Grandmother, Baby, Child, teenage

Discussion

• Q & A • How can we work with you? e.g. Libraries as venues for learning

Advisory surgery in libraries e.g. drop-in

• Can we help to promote your services (directories, leaflets in files, weblinks?)

• Feedback about Learning strategy