Toyota’s donation opens UniversalClass courses at libraries

MADISON – A donation from Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. is opening classes for the local workforce at Huntsville-Madison County Public Library or HMCPL.

The library system has been able to add to its growing workforce development offerings with a subscription to UniversalClass.

UniversalClass offers more than 600 online courses. All courses are free and available to card holders with Huntsville-Madison County Public Library. With UniversalClass, students gain 24/7 access, feedback from certified instructors and self-paced classes.

Continuing Education Units on select courses range from programming and technology to crafts and hobbies, according to spokesperson Annie Phillips. (blog.hmcpl.org/learn-something-new-universalclass)

UniversalClass courses cover subjects from employment to recreation:

* Job skills — Accounting and bookkeeping; economics; rental property management; basic math skills; historical fiction writing; aging and long-term care; and cake decorating.

* Job searches — Microsoft Word 2021; chemistry; geography; U.S. citizenship test preparation; community development; assertiveness training; diversity/inclusion training; interior design; and interview skills.

* Technical training — Adobe Photoshop; cybersecurity; introduction to logic; and Python programming

* Miscellaneous – Aromatherapy, event planning; crisis management; and Egyptian mythology.

To enroll in a UniversalClass, sign in to the Libby app (library personnel can assist here). Scroll down to “Extras” and click “UniversalClass.” On the UniversalClass page for HMCPL, click “Register Now!” Open a UniversalClass account with your email address.

If you do not have a Libby account, download the Libby app (it’s free) with the App Store or Google Play. Another access option is visiting libbyapp.com.

To start using Libby, use the HMCPL account number, which appears on the back of a library card, and a personal identification number or PIN.