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Cabarrus County Public Library 1 Literacy & Lifelong Learning Grant Application 1. USERS AND NEED The Cabarrus County Public Library consists of four libraries — Concord, Harrisburg, Kannapolis and Mt Pleasant. All of these libraries offer computers with Internet for the public. Most offer computer or technology - related classes for the public, but not all do. The classes are not offered on a consistent basis and do not have consistent lesson plans from library to library. Currently, most computer classes are offered in the meeting rooms of each library with an instructor demonstrating how to use the software or database, but library patrons do not have any hands -on experience in a classroom setting. A mobile computer lab is in the process of being added. The public frequently report to staff that they want and need computer classes so that they can learn the skills they need to apply for jobs online, create and refine resumes, do research, complete coursework, learn to use library resources and learn other computer related skills. In the library's 2012 patron survey the most requested topics for library programs were computer /technology related. There were 18 different computer /technology topics requested, ranging from basic computer skills, to instruction using databases and software, to applying for jobs and creating resumes. Once technology and computer skills are learned patrons can achieve personal goals which may include getting a new job, advancing at current job, completing or furthering education, learning to use library resources, or just learning new skills. Cabarrus Literacy Council's mission is to elevate the literacy level of adults in Cabarrus County, educate decision makers on literacy issues and enable students to enhance their life experiences and reach personal development goals through partnerships with community organizations and individuals. There are currently 155 students who are served by the Literacy Council volunteer tutors. Many of those students have a personal goal of being able to read or read better so that they can gain or continue employment. Operation of a computer and related technology is important for those in the workforce. Although operation of a computer and related technology is important for those in the workforce, new or beginning adult readers who do not own a computer or who do not have access to a computer will not be able to apply for a job, communicate with potential or current employers electronically or help their children with some of their homework. Some of these adults are at risk of becoming unemployable because of their poor computer use skills. The library is a place of learning where Adult Basic Literacy students can learn in a non - judgmental environment. In the 2012 Cabarrus Community Needs Assessment conducted by Healthy Cabarrus ( healthycabarrus.org ), illiteracy was the top ranked issue of significance in the community with 73.8 percent of key informants saying it was either a significant or very significant community issue. Based on data from the US Census, it is estimated that 15% of adults 25 or older in Cabarrus County are considered Functionally Illiterate. ( http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/37/37159.htm1 ). 2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project is to provide computer and technology related classes to the public through the Cabarrus County Public Library and the Cabarrus Literacy Council. The project will entail hiring a grant funded staff member to create lesson plans for classes, teach classes to the public and train staff and volunteers to teach classes. Related materials and equipment will also be purchased as part of the project. Four types of classes will be offered. Attanhmant nnmh 1 Literacy & Lifelong Learning Project Grant, 2013 -2014 page 1 of 7 F -9 Page 110