Laman Library is going to start providing free online job training

Little Rock, Arkansas – The North Little Rock Public Library System is going to be the first public library to provide virtual workforce development skills through the Transfer Virtual Training Facility, thanks to $10,000 funding from Union Pacific.

Thanks to this award, Laman Library can now offer educational programs in medical, manufacturing, construction, culinary arts, automotive, hospitality, electrical construction, aircraft repair, and diesel technology to the community, enabling its people to gain new knowledge and skills.

“This is just the sort of innovative service and community commitment we’ve come to expect from the library and appreciate from Union Pacific,” said North Little Rock Mayor Terry Hartwick. “This training will help if you are looking to advance or change careers, which may call for new skills.

“VR makes it easier to get a variety of hands-on experiences, especially with heavy machinery, electrical, and construction, in a safe environment.”

Union Pacific can achieve its objectives of supporting local communities by providing resources and fostering the development of fundamental skills that enable workforces to advance in their careers through the Community Ties Giving Program.

“We’re excited to offer free workforce skills development and career exploration to students and everyone else seeking to expand their skills,” said Crystal Gates, executive director of North Little Rock Public Library System. “We certainly appreciate Union Pacific’s support in providing this virtual reality training.”

Since 2021, over 27,393 Arkansans have learned over 6,770 skills through Transfr’s VR career exploration program. These skills can be applied to career exploration, safety skills training, precision measurement training, and classroom instruction.

“We are especially pleased to assist entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community members who want to learn more, but for whatever reason, are unable to attend a formal certification program at this time,” Gates said.

The William F. Laman Public Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the use of Transfer Virtual Training Facility headsets.

Click here for additional details on this new development and other NLRPLS resources, or give us a call at 501-758-1720.