Lifelong learning, education, and training are undoubtedly part of your library’s mission statement. The attainment of knowledge through learning is ingrained in our society, and libraries support this holistic view on education and lifelong learning. People want to improve their knowledge, skills, and competence in the workplace and in life on a continuous basis. This concept rings true in the Lifelong Learning and Technology Pew Research Center study, which reported that nearly three-quarters of Americans view themselves as lifelong learners and more than half of workers have participated in a job-related upskilling activity.1
While supporting continuous learning is a high priority for libraries, ensuring that the educational content is relevant and current in an ever-changing world is a challenge. Public libraries are keenly aware they must target all kinds of learners and provide helpful motivation for continuous learning. From pre-K prep to high school completion to career development to skills and hobbies, lifelong learning is continuous.
As the employment landscape continuously changes, workers are seeking training to learn new technologies and skills they are being tasked to do. It is important to stay competitive in order to be ready for opportunities in the workplace. Studies show that on average workers change jobs 12 times in their lifetime.2 It is essential for libraries to offer motivation through continuous learning and educational training to adults who seek to develop new skills that align with industry trends and changes in the workplace.
Gale helps play an important role in this educational journey by offering innovative, on-demand, and instructor-led online learning solutions that focus on developing knowledge and new skills. As the needs of your community evolve, we continue developing resources for library patrons that improve the learning experience and help users create a personal connection in a virtual world.
Here are some of the online products Gale offers to support and develop continuous learning. Together, we can provide essential content and user-friendly technology that engage learners and encourage patrons to achieve their personal and professional goals.
