As we step into 2025, many of us reflect on the past year and think about the changes we want to make in the new one. New Year’s resolutions often focus on self-improvement, and the resolution to commit to lifelong learning is one that can have a profound and lasting impact on all areas of your life.
Fiero Code (NEW!)
Exciting news for all aspiring coders and tech enthusiasts!
Fiero Code, an innovative e-learning platform designed to turn you into a coding pro is now available, both in-library, or from home, 24/7! It's gamified, self-paced, and perfect for all ages—from kids to adults. Whether you're starting from scratch or want to enhance your skills, Fiero Code offers a comprehensive curriculum and content in languages like:
HTML
CSS
JavaScript
Python
SQL
and projects involving
Makey Makey
Raspberry Pi
Ozobot
Sphero
The platform isn't just about learning to code; it's about making the process as engaging and rewarding as possible. Fiero Code uses gamification techniques to make learning as engaging and rewarding as possible. Learners earn rewards, unlock levels, and customize their own robot avatars as they progress.
Unlike many coding platforms, Fiero Code isn't aimed exclusively at children. Adults can casually delve into areas of interest, but can also follow in-depth pathways that can set them up for professional coding careers.
Use your library card to log in and register for a free Fiero Code account to track your progress!
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LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is an educational platform that helps you discover and develop business, technology-related, and creative skills through expert-led course videos. You will have access to personalized, “bite-sized” video-based learning 24/7 so you can develop relevant skills and grow professionally. There are over 16,000 courses and content is available in 7 languages.
There are three branches of learning, covering a broad range of topics, including:
- Business: digital transformation, leadership & management, soft skills, project management training, HR training, customer service training, performance management training, online marketing training, professional development, career development, training & education, business software and tools, finance and accounting, sales, small business and entrepreneurship.
- Technology: IT infrastructure training, cloud computing, data science, web development, software development, security, database management, IT help desk, mobile development, network and system administration, and internet of things.
- Creative: online graphic design training, online AEC training, CAD, web design, user experience, 3D and animation, art and illustration, video, motion graphics and VFX, photography, audio and music.
LinkedIn Learning is also available as a mobile app, so that you can take your learning anywhere and anytime it's convenient for you! When prompted, the library ID is Richland.
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Transparent Language
Transparent Language Online is a complete language-learning system with courses and lessons designed to build listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Whether you’re starting at the very beginning with a new alphabet or you’re an intermediate learner looking to enhance your vocabulary and grammar knowledge, Transparent Language Online can help!
Transparent Language provides unlimited access to more than 110 languages, including English for speakers of over 30 languages. This extensive language-learning program works on virtually any computer or mobile device through a web browser or mobile app.
Some notable features:
ESL/ELL Support
- English Essentials for Speakers of Other Languages from beginner to intermediate level.
- Business English lessons with paired content for Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Turkish speakers, covering practical business topics From advertising to computer applications, investing terms, and much more.
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- American Citizenship Test prep course, designed with the goal of preparing test takers to comfortably answer any of the 100 civics questions. The course is intended to truly teach learners about the American government, history, and culture, including key vocabulary words.
ASL
- Created in partnership with Signing Savvy, the ASL course in Transparent Language Online contains 77 lessons covering fingerspelling, over 800 sign videos, and a series of Deaf culture facts. By the end of this 30-hour course, learners will build a good foundation in American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture.
KidSpeak
- Using the successful immersion approach preferred for young children, KidSpeak™ introduces the alphabet and word recognition, simple sentences, how to use plural and singular, how to distinguish between words that look and sound similar, simple addition and subtraction, how to tell time, number recognition (matching numbers to written words), and correct pronunciation.
