Library steps forward with help for job seekers
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Free Library services are more popular than ever. From books, to DVDs and CDs and free programs, like concerts, story times and movie screenings, San Diegans look to the Library for things they cannot afford. Even more critically, the Library has stepped up to provide crucial support and specialized guidance with job searches, financial planning and educational needs.
Librarian Jeff Davis (pictured here) reports an increase in those looking for help in finding work. In response, the library has added public computers for job searches, online applications and resume preparation. These computers include resume templates and staff who stand ready to help patrons get started on resumes and applications.
The American Library Association reports that nearly three-quarters of job seekers use the Internet for job searches and that less than 44 of the top 100 U.S. retailers even accept in-store paper applications.Nationally, nearly 73 percent of libraries are their communities’ sole provider of free Internet access.
“Many come to the library because they don’t know where to start,” said Davis. “We are able to provide resources and point them in the correct direction.”Social Sciences staff have developed a flyer listing these kinds of resources, including job banks, government listings, job fairs and job training assistance. A listing of these resources also is available at SanDiegoLibrary.org.
The Social Science section also houses books on test-preparation, resume samples, local college catalogs and business plan handbooks.“An out-of-work patron recently came in thinking about starting a business,” Davis said. “We found business plans, start-up materials and information on the economic climate. There has been a notable increase in these types of inquiries.
”The Library also helps patrons with free financial planning and budgeting assistance. Recnetly, a bus sponsored by the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors visited the Central Library and provided free advice from financial experts. Also, branch libraries offered 35 free tax preparation classes in partnership with AARP. Additionally, basic computer skills classes are regularly offered at branches.
Librarians are all too familiar with this saying: Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries.
