The SJCPL Offers 'Bendable' Learning Platform To South Bend

This Patch article is sponsored by Bendable.

Bendable is a new online learning platform created by and for South Bend, Indiana. The app launched in early June and was developed in partnership between the Drucker Institute and The St. Joseph County Public Library.

The learning center allows people of all ages and backgrounds to easily acquire new knowledge and skills through online courses, as well as in-person learning opportunities.

Patch caught up with Jennifer Henecke, communications manager at St. Joseph County Public Library, to learn more about the Library and how it is integrating Bendable as a lifelong learning resource for the community.

Patch: Why was Bendable created?

Henecke: For too many people, learning ends when they finish their formal schooling. Increasingly, however, economic opportunity — as well as dignity — hinges upon lifelong learning. Part digital and part place-based, Bendable allows people of all ages and backgrounds to easily acquire new knowledge and skills through online courses, as well as in-person learning opportunities. It promises to forge a “city of lifelong learning,” making the community more resilient in the face of a fast-changing economy.

Patch: Why is the library a key partner of Bendable?

Henecke: The Library has been involved at every step in the creation of Bendable. We said yes to the partnership early on because we share a central focus on lifelong learning. The Library’s mission is to provide free and open access to everyone in our community. Lifelong learning is really what we are all about. Bendable mirrors the Library in this way by offering learning resources that appeal to people of all ages. We are weaving together all the reasons that people need and want to learn. We are working to instill a habit of learning that emphasizes the journey rather than one endpoint.

Patch: Who is Bendable for?

Henecke: Bendable, just like the Library, is for everyone. It is for people looking to learn for pleasure or for work. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what your background is, you will find something to learn and discover.

Patch: How is Bendable customized for the people of South Bend?

Henecke: Bendable was truly built for our community (we are even in the name!). The resources have been curated to be relevant for South Bend, and through Community Collections, local experts can share what they know. Collections are personal learning playlists made by people from South Bend. You can read about how to learn to code from Alex Sejdinaj, co-founder of the South Bend Code School, or about voting as an informed citizen from the League of Women Voter’s Lisa Plencner. With Career Collections, local businesses have determined which learning resources can help you gain new skills to help you get a promotion or new job.

Patch: What kind of content is available on Bendable?

Henecke: There is so much to discover in Bendable. With over 1,000 learning resources, you can find something to learn whether you are interested in cooking, political history, time management skills or writing a resume. We have 18 local and national providers, which means there are both in person opportunities — take a Zumba class at Howard Park — or online classes.

Patch: What South Bend organizations are already using Bendable?

Henecke: We have been working with a variety of different organizations and individuals. A dozen frontline staff from the City of South Bend’s Department of Public Works are now using the platform for customer service training. A teacher from Riley High School uses it in his classroom. We are working with case managers and staff at WorkOne and Goodwill so that Bendable can be a tool for them to help their clients. We also have partnerships with local providers: Forever Learning Institute, La Casa de Amistad and Venues Parks & Arts to name a few.

Patch: How much does Bendable cost?

Henecke: As with most things at the public library, Bendable is free! You can create an account at Bendable.com using your library card. If you don’t have a library card yet, we will help you get one and you can sign in using your South Bend area zip code.