U.S. Sen. Jack Reed visited the Cranston Public Library on Friday, getting a tour of the new “C” Lab at the Central Library and hearing about the results of the ALLAccess in the Libraries adult learning initiative.

The Cranston library, in the last year, has implemented new programming through ALLAccess, which is made possible through a $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

ALLAccess represents a joint effort on the part of representatives from the Cranston library, the Providence Public Library, the Rhode Island Family Literacy Initiative, MJIF Consulting, the Adult Education Professional Development Center, Tech Access of Rhode Island and the University of Rhode Island. Starting in May 2014, one-on-one technology appointments were offered as the first service launched in Cranston.

During the appointments, patrons work individually with librarians to develop basic computer literacy skills. Topics include setting up email, operating tablets, navigating the Windows 8 operating system and using basic software applications. Thus far, 50 patrons have taken part in the effort, setting 81 appointments with librarians. The library hopes to increase its instruction capacity in the coming year.

“We want to begin a ‘Job Club’ where we can set aside time to come together and work on resumes and cover letters, but also to support one another and share our experiences, what did or didn’t work,” said Stephanie Metko, the digital learning team leader/librarian. “It is stressful looking for a job, especially now … This whole program is really patron driven. We let them come to us, and with our flexibility, we can help.”

Magdalena DeSousa is among those to have utilized the program.

“I worked in the financial industry for 17 years, and then to be cost effective they decided to not work in Rhode Island anymore. It is hard to have to start all over again. You get in this routine day-in and day-out. You aren’t exposed to this kind of stuff,” she said. “They have been really helpful here, even just helping me navigate through my new laptop. They are flexible, and I like that I don’t have to take a college class or make a commitment.”

“You can’t get a job today without getting online. This program capitalizes on that need, demand and necessity,” Reed said. “For many people, it’s not a lack of desire. They just don’t know where to begin.”

The “C” Lab is the library’s new multi-use digital media learning space. It features a configurable classroom, which can be used for digital literacy classes, teen tech programs, workforce development and as an open technology space.

The lab also features a 3D printer, analog-to digital transfer equipment and digital media creation equipment. The lab was funded through a $130,000 grant from the Champlin Foundations and $20,000 provided for technology from IMLS.

Additionally, the ALLAccess grant provided funding for 15 new laptops for the lab and the Exploration Station, which is the brainchild of Tech Access RI and is designed to provide on-site exploration of the accessibility features at the library.

The Central Library is located at 140 Sockanosset Cross Road. For more information, visit cranstonlibrary.org.