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In the traditional sense, libraries are halls of literature and books. But as Macedon Public Library Director Stacey Wicksall will tell you, there is so much more.

“You can borrow reading glasses, which is really popular with people,” Wicksall said. “It’s not just books.”

From karaoke to laptops to breadmakers, and now, a classroom.

“To me, the idea that libraries can be utilized as classroom settings is actually a really obvious thing,” Wicksall said.

Macedon Public Library is one of six spots taking part in Finger Lakes Community College’s Grit Program.

Growing rural infrastructure offers virtual courses at those locations. Training for in-demand jobs that don’t necessarily need a four year degree.

“So the reality is, in our region there are employers who need talented people, with some higher education and really with just a small amount of training, our local folks can find employment in their communities,” Todd Sloane, FLCC director of workforce and career solutions, said.

Macedon is offering courses in advanced manufacturing and computer applications.

“They can see what's happening in the classroom, the professor will be able to share their screen.”

Wicksall is also VP of the Wayne County Business Council. She says jobs are there, but not all the people to fill them.

“So if you happen to be unemployed or underemployed or maybe you're working at a job but you're not getting very much satisfaction out of that job anymore in your life and you're thinking, Boy, it could be time for a career switch. This is a great program for you,” Wicksall said.

Especially for students who don’t have a way to get to FLCC’s main campus.

“We gauge success in a very practical way. Did someone get a job in one of the sectors that it was their goal to get a job and, or if they worked in that field, but maybe had what might be called like a semi-skilled job, did this training give them an opportunity to advance into one of those more technical positions that required higher education,” Sloane said.

In the practical sense, these days, libraries are about much more than just books.

“It's the next best thing to being in person and maybe better, depending on your situation,” Wicksall said.