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Learning for a LifetimeLifelong Learning
While it is imperative for children to have solid literacy skills, education does not end upon the completion of formal schooling. Today's world requires adults to learn on a daily basis. Continued education at the Library helps local residents grow personally, pursue individual interests, cultivate work skills, learn more about technological advances, keep up-to-date on current events, and more. To better fulfill its role as the lifelong learning hub for the entire community, the Library seeks to expand its programs and services. The goals of these proposed programs are to: 
By expanding its current program offerings, the Library will increase its ability to respond to new needs, remain Indianapolis' conduit to the world, open the doors of knowledge, and help the community succeed in today's information economy. Bridging the Digital DivideDue to the proliferation of the Internet and electronic information, individuals seeking to maneuver within today's information world must have access to computers and basic computer skills. According to The Lifestyle Market Analyst 2006, 40% of Indianapolis residents do not have a computer in their home. Since some people do not own a computer, or know how to use one, they rely upon the library to gain access to the virtual world. The Library's computers enable them to access the internet, use e-mail, or prepare a résumé. Many of these individuals need help with basic computer skills, from using the mouse and navigating basic programs to conducting web-based research and accessing information databases.  The Library currently offers computer classes primarily at the Interim Central Library. However, many patrons cannot travel to the Interim Central Library, and programs are offered only occasionally at a limited number of branches. To meet the needs of patrons, the Library seeks to expand its computer assistance by offering basic classes at every branch, providing additional "train the trainer" resources to library staff, and engaging volunteer technology mentors. The Library's lifelong learning initiative will also fund the development of new training and classes as technology changes. By offering more computer classes throughout the system, the Library will help to bridge the digital divide and meet the changing technological and information access needs of Indianapolis residents. Enhancing Work and Job Search SkillsMany people come to the Library and want to use a computer to compose a résumé or apply for a job (some employers only accept job applications on-line). Consequently, computer skills often go hand-in-hand with a patron's job search. To meet this increased need, the Library plans to offer résumé and job search classes. These classes will help local residents put together a professional résumé, learn how to search for job opportunities on-line, and gain basic interview skills. Many residents would make use of this resource because they already start their job search at a library. Not only does the Library have books on résumés, cover letters, and interview skills, it also has databases and annual reports that job seekers find useful. By expanding its current offerings to include workshops and trainings, the Library will better meet demand. While this program will be open to all, these workshops will especially assist low-skill workers. All adults need to keep reading! Based upon the popularity of One Book One City, the Library seeks to create an adult reading program. This self-guided program will encourage residents to design their own reading plan. The program will include reading lists by interest areas, book clubs with guided discussion opportunities, outreach, and participant recognition to encourage lifelong learning. The adult reading programs will provide opportunities that connect people and build community.
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