Library's workforce center now open

 LaRue County residents seeking employment opportunities now have more computer access, training and job workshops at the new Public Library Workforce Center. The LaRue County Public Library is one of 46 public libraries in the state to become a PLWC. 

The centers house computers and software that will be used to provide training in a formal workshop setting to Kentucky residents seeking employment opportunities. 

The centers are made possible by a $1.3 million American Reinvestment and Recovery Act Broadband Technology Opportunities Program grant provided through the U.S. Department of Commerce National Telecommunications and Information Administration. The project is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and administered by the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives. The grant targets counties with high unemployment.

“We are pleased to use these grant funds to create Public Library Workforce Centers in 46 Kentucky public libraries. The centers will assist their communities in the economic recovery and provide lasting benefits in education and economic development. We are proud to be working with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and partners across the Commonwealth to bring technology and training to so many Kentuckians at their public libraries,” said Wayne Onkst, Kentucky’s state librarian and commissioner of KDLA. 

 “We are excited to have the opportunity to offer employment related workshops,” said LaRue County Public Library Director Dana Jolly. “I believe the workshops will be a great resource for anyone in their search for employment or career advancement.” 

To create its PLWC, the LaRue County Public Library installed eight laptop computers and six desktop computers with funds from the BTOP grant. The library has also purchased a dedicated laser printer for the center’s use, as well as resume writing software and computer desks and chairs. The library used more than $25,700 in grant funds to purchase the equipment, software and furniture. 

The LaRue County PLWC will offer monthly in-house workshops to serve residents who are either seeking employment or looking for a better job. Topics covered include Internet for Beginners and Introduction to Microsoft Word.

The center will be partnering with LaRue County Family Resource Centers and LaRue County Community Action. These community partnerships will ensure that the PLWC will assist as many LaRue County residents who are seeking employment as possible.

KDLA provides equitable access to quality library and information resources and services, as well as helps public agencies ensure that legislatively mandated documentation of government programs is created, efficiently maintained, and made accessible. For more information on KDLA resources, programs and services visit www.kdla.ky.gov or call 502-564-8300 ext. 315.