April 23, 2024

Newton Public Library acquires LearningExpress Library

LearningExpress

Library now available

Improving the job search process, preparing for career certification, raising college entrance test scores, and improving 21st century basic skills are now all possible with just the click of a mouse at the Newton Public Library.

The 2012 legislature directed Iowa Workforce Development to provide $150,000 in funding to Iowa Library Services/State Library “for the purpose of licensing an online resource which prepares persons to succeed in the workplace through programs which improve job skills and vocational test-taking abilities.”

Thanks to the funding from IWD, LearningExpress Library, which offers over 800 career and academic-oriented courses and practice tests online. will be available at no charge to all Iowa public and academic libraries for all of 2013.

Visit Newton Public Library, log on to a computer, and enjoy free, unlimited access to interactive skill building courses in math, reading and writing, as well as a broad range of practice tests based on official exams such as the ACT, SAT, GED, ASVAB Core, and EMT Basic, as well as firefighter, police officer, paramedic, Allied Healthcare, U.S. citizenship, postal worker, cosmetology, and real estate agent and broker exams. The service is available 24-7 from any Internet-enabled computer — in your library or at home.

The LearningExpress Library online platform provides over 800 of the most up-to-date test preparation and skill-building resources, helping both students and adults prepare for a wide range of academic and career oriented exams, as well as improve basic skills in reading, writing and math. In addition, job-skills tutorials are available to assist in creating a resume, honing interviewing techniques, and improving business communications. Library patrons also have the option of selecting from more than 130 e-book titles to help learners of all ages prepare for success. The platform includes self-paced study, instant scoring and diagnostic feedback.

For more information about this exciting new service, call or visit the Newton Public Library, our website at www.newton.lib.ia.us and click the "LearningExpress" Icon, or call us at (641) 792-4108.

The Newton Public Library will be offering Introduction classes to LearningExpress Library on Fridays at 8:30a.m.-10 a.m. To sign-up please call the Information Desk at (641) 792-4108, class size is limited.

Newton Travels

Have you traveled somewhere (near or far) and would like to share your stories and photos with others? The Newton Public Library is looking to start a series of programs titled “Newton Travels” where Newton natives share their stories, souvenirs, and pictures of trips! If you’d be interesting in being part of the series by presenting call Nicole Lindstrom at (641) 792-4108.

Scheduled One-on-One Tech Time

Did you get a Kindle or iPad and need help setting it up? Or want to check out an e-book through the Library on your E-Reader device and can’t figure out how? We can help you with that! Nicole Lindstrom, the Public Services Librarian, is offering one-on-one instruction on Mondays from 3 to 5 p.m. by appointment only. These appointments are for half an hour. Please call the Information Desk at (641) 792-4108 to schedule an appointment.

Chick Flick & Lit.

A showing of “Anna Karenina” will be on Thursday March 28th, at 5:30 p.m. Movie Synopsis: Adapted from Leo Tolstoy’s timeless novel, the story powerfully explores the capacity for love that surges through the human heart. As Anna questions her happiness and marriage, change comes to all around her.

The movie is the first showing in a reoccurring monthly program titled Chick Flick & Lit. Each movie in the program will be based off a book.

Coffee & Movie

A showing of “Here Comes the Boom” will be on Wednesday April 3rd at 10:30am in the meeting room of the library.

In this comedy, former collegiate wrestler, Scott Voss is now a 42-year-old, apathetic biology teacher in a failing high school. When cutbacks threaten the school’s music program and its teachers, Scott springs into action.

He dusts off his long-unused wrestling skills and earns money for the program by moonlighting as a mixed martial arts fighter. Though the school nurse thinks he’s crazy, Scott gains something he never expected, and the school rallies behind him. Come and enjoy camaraderie, a humorous movie, and a cup of coffee.

Look for story times and other scheduled events on our website at www.newton.lib.ia.us.