Last Updated: 2nd May 2025
Stoke Libraries Case Study
The Stoke-on-Trent Library Service uses Virtual College's online courses as part of the blended solution to help job seekers. Read case study to find out more.
Personal & Professional Development
Case Study
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About Stoke Libraries
Stoke Libraries are a library service provided on behalf of the Stoke-on-Trent Council. Offering everything from online e-books to digital downloads and physical books in their library, they offer a wide range of resources to the city of Stoke-on-Trent.
The Challenge
The Stoke-on-Trent Library Service uses Virtual College's online courses as part of the blended solution to help job seekers.
As part of Stoke-on- Trent City Council, the Library Service is well-aware of the need to make efficient use of its finite resources. Lynne Evans, ICT tutor for Stoke- on-Trent Libraries explained that one of its key aims was to help the long term unemployed to gain basic essential skills to get them back into work.
We provide an introduction to email and using the internet to help job seekers to find and apply for vacancies online.
Lynne Evans
ICT Tutor
/n/n### The Delivery
Virtual College’s online learning courses are used as part of the blended solution provided by Stoke–on–Trent Libraries.
Initially, learners come into the library to get individual support from the ICT Team. They can continue to do their learning online at a time and pace that suits them. The Library Service has a bank of computer resources that learners can use if they do not have home access to the internet. It also has laptops which can be used for community-based events. The Library Service works with many diverse groups to provide essential online services.
These online resources are ideal for anyone who wishes to go online who need to be able to improve their current skill sets. The IOSHH course is particularly popular as many learners want jobs in construction and need the passport that this course leads to.
Scalable Reach
Online learning enabled training delivery to a much larger number of learners than would have been possible face-to-face
Improved Engagement
The interactive, age-inclusive content boosted learner confidence
Streamlined Admin
The learning management system simplified setup, tracking, and reporting, reducing administrative effort
The Results
Online learning proved particularly effective for job seekers who lacked confidence or had previously struggled in traditional classroom environments. The interactive and engaging nature of the training helped boost learner confidence across a wide age range.
From a resource perspective, the digital approach allowed the team to deliver training to significantly more individuals while maintaining a focus on personalised, one-to-one learning support.
The learning management system streamlined learner setup, administration, and progress tracking, making the overall process more efficient. Additionally, the team received consistent support from Virtual College to resolve any issues quickly and effectively.
The learning management system makes it easy to set up learners and administer and report on their progress. We also get great support from Virtual College’s team if we have any issues.
Lynne Evans
ICT Tutor for Stoke- on-Trent Libraries