Author: Kaytee Smith
I had the chance to speak with Amy Weber, MLIS, Information Services Manager at the Iredell County Public Library, about an exciting new initiative that’s expanding learning opportunities for the community: a pilot partnership with Coursera. This innovative program is already opening doors for patrons of all backgrounds, and Amy gave me the inside scoop on how it all came to life and why it matters.
How it Started
It all began with an email. “Juli received a message through the NCPLDA listserv about a new pilot program launch,” Amy shared. “She forwarded it to me to get my thoughts, and I attended an informational session in February to learn more about the program’s structure, content, and staff workload. Afterward, we both agreed: the benefits to our patrons made this an easy yes.”
Why Coursera Matters
So what’s the big deal about Coursera? According to Amy, it’s all about access. “Coursera offers thousands of courses from top universities and companies around the world. For our cardholders, it’s an incredible chance to gain new skills, explore career pathways, or just keep learning—for free and at their own pace.”
Unlike some free online platforms, Coursera’s courses can be accredited through the teaching organization. “That adds extra weight on a resume,” Amy explained. “It’s not just about self-improvement—it’s about career advancement, too.”
Courses That Are Turning Heads
I asked Amy which topics were resonating most with users so far. The standout favorites?
- Foundations: Data, Data, Everywhere
- Technical Support Foundations
- Intro to Social Media Marketing
- Ask Questions to Make Data-Driven Decisions
- Foundations of Project Management
It’s clear people are hungry for practical, career-relevant skills—and they’re finding them.
Aligning with the Library’s Mission
Amy sees the Coursera partnership as a natural fit with the library’s mission. “Our goal is to enrich the lives of everyone in Iredell County by supporting, empowering, and educating them to be their best. We’re big proponents of lifelong learning, and Coursera is a flexible, accessible tool for adults of all ages.”
Getting Started Is Simple
If you have a library card, you’re already halfway there. Patrons can start by visiting the Coursera slide on the library’s website or speaking with staff for help. “Once they input their name, email, and card number, they’ll get an email invitation to create their Coursera account and can begin browsing and enrolling in courses right away.”
Tips for First-Timers
If online learning feels intimidating, Amy has this advice: “Don’t be afraid to go at your own pace and revisit content as needed. It’s better to do a bit each day than to try to binge your way through it all—that’s a fast track to burnout.”
Access and Support
Each participant gets a 90-day access period. “At the end of those 90 days, the license expires. But if we have open slots, they can reapply and renew their access for another full 90-day stretch,” said Amy. If all licenses are in use, they’ll just need to check back later.
And if someone needs help navigating Coursera? “There’s an entire support system in place,” she said. “The Coursera Help Center has FAQs, video tutorials, and options to reach out for help directly.”
The Future of Public Libraries
I asked Amy what this kind of program means for the future of libraries. Her answer? Inspiring.
“These programs show that libraries are evolving to meet the changing needs of their communities. We’re not just about books—we’re about opportunity, workforce development, and lifelong learning. We’re community hubs where people grow, connect, and dream bigger.”