5 Ways Your Local Library Can Help Your Career
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When Benjamin Franklin invented the public library, he probably didn’t foresee them becoming the mecca of resources, events and free programs that they are today. Libraries, for many people, are more than just a place that lets them borrow books. They are a place to work, a place to access the internet and a place to learn.



We all pay into the public library system, and some of us are lucky enough to have access to college libraries, as well. It’s time to get the value out of the public library system that you deserve. All of us can benefit from the programs our local libraries offer, but job seekers especially have a lot to gain. Here are five ways your local library can help your career.



1. Resources Specifically for Job Seekers



Chances are, the librarians at your local library are getting savvier about the job search. During the recent economic downturn, libraries stepped in as the go-to resource for job seekers, and many trained their librarians in job skills such as resume and cover letter writing. At the very least, the people working in the reference section know their way around job search websites and can point you in the right direction — and they may even offer classes in conducting an online job search!



Most libraries also have a pretty extensive set of job search books and references, and some may even provide a career center. Even if there is no career center, see if it is possible to schedule a time to sit down one-on-one with a librarian and have them review your resume.



2. Freedom to Work in a Quiet Public Space



Many people don’t realize how distracting it can be to work at home until they are forced to. There are pets and children to care for, chores to get done and any number of distractions that can pull you out of the career development mindset and into a distracted or worrying state. If this sounds like your home life, maybe it’s time to move your job search to the library.



Just imagine a place with lots of comfortable chairs and tables, the calming background rumble of a public place (without having to pull up Coffitivity), free wifi and you don’t even have to keep buying coffee to stay there. This mythical location is your library, and whether you’re bringing your own computer or using a public one, it’s a great place to work.



3. Free Skills Classes



With jobs getting more and more technology-centric, having vital computer skills to put on your resume, such as knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, is pretty much mandatory. Many public libraries offer classes in everything from basic computing, to selling on eBay, to how to create pivot tables in Excel.



To see what classes are currently being offered, visit your library’s events calendar or ask a librarian. Looking for a niche interest class, like one in Access databases or workforce management? If you can rally enough interest from your local community for a course the library is not currently offering, you might be able to make it happen.



4. Special Interest Clubs and Events



Most libraries offer public meeting areas of a variety of sizes, making them a great place to host a club or special interest organization. At my own local library there are fliers hanging up all over the walls, advertising everything from a mystery books club, to a poetry society, to a public speaking group. Besides being fun social activities, clubs like these are a great way to network with others in the local community. You never know when a friend of an acquaintance is looking to hire someone with your experience.



Don’t see a club you’re interested in joining? Consider creating a job seekers club. You can meet on a monthly basis to discuss job searching techniques, share opportunities and exchange resumes for peer evaluations.



5. Connections with Other Community Resources



Where do people go when they are looking for help filling out applications, applying for aid or even finding ESL resources? Chances are, they start looking at their local library. Because of this, your librarians have likely become well-versed in all the resources your community has to offer. They will be able to tell you where to apply for unemployment, which community establishments offer free financial advice or legal counsel or even which local charities provide free interview attire. Take advantage of this wealth of community knowledge to advance your job search and career.



It often seems like libraries will bend over backwards to help their patrons, so if these resources are missing, ask for them! Chances are, you are not the only member of the community that would benefit from these services, and it doesn’t cost anything to ask. In addition, most libraries are looking for volunteers, so if you’re having trouble finding work and want a great experience to put on your resume, consider applying as a volunteer. It’s a great way to give back to your community for all the incredible resources it provides.