Using your Local Library to Find a Job
There are many different tools and resources available to you at your local library to assist you in your job search. Any of the library's multiple resources could be used to aid in finding a job. The sheer volume of reference materials available at a library, coupled with the fact that they are free to use, aids tremendously in a serious job search.
Internet
Most libraries have internet access provided on computers that are open to the public. Different libraries have different policies regarding the use of their computers. Whatever your library's policy, you may use the internet to conduct your job search. Different job boards may be accessed and searched through. A job board collects job postings from all over the web and posts them in one location. It is a kind of database of jobs. Most sites have a search feature to narrow down your search by location, keyword, or job category. It may also pay to search jobs at the websites of specific businesses of interest to you. The careers section is usually located at the very bottom of the home page.
The internet may also be used to reference materials needed for your search. You could research resume writing tips to polish your resume. You could receive tips from professionals about the best answers to top interview questions. There are many career-related web sites, and they are not all on job boards.
Books
Books are what libraries are famous for and your local library most likely has no shortage of career-related books. There are resume-writing books, books on picking the right career, books on acing an interview, books on how to answer questions on a job application; you name it, there is a book about it. Books are a convenient way to find a job because you can use the information in the book while you are doing something else. Books are portable and they can be checked out of the library if you are inclined to work on your job search at home. Books are also easily cross referenced.
Newspapers and magazines
Your local library most likely carries all of the local area newspapers. Newspapers are a good way to search for jobs, though they are quickly becoming outdated. Nevertheless, there are still ads being printed in the classified section of the newspaper. How useful a newspaper will be in your search depends on the type of employment you are seeking.
Your local library most likely carries a large selection of magazines. If you are lucky, you may find a magazine related to the profession you wish to get into. If not, you may find a magazine that includes a want ad for a position of interest to you.
Software programs
The computers at your local library most likely have a version of the Microsoft Office suite installed on them. Microsoft Word is very helpful in typing a resume: it gives it a polished, professional look. Some versions of Word include resume templates, though it is recommended that you create your resume from scratch. Cover letters, queries, and letters of interest are also easily created on Microsoft Word. Libraries usually allow printing at a charge per sheet of paper.
Bulletin board
Some libraries list job postings, among other listings, on a bulletin board near the entrance. As there are many different postings on the bulletin board, it may take some searching to find them. Finding a job this way does have its advantages, though. The library has to give permission for anyone to post there, so you can be assured there are no scams. In fact, the jobs posted there are usually higher-paying jobs offered by government agencies or local businesses.
Ask the librarian
Librarians are there for a reason. Their job is to help patrons access the information they need. Your local librarian is most likely knowledgeable about which area businesses are hiring and certain specifics about them. Sometimes job fairs are held at local libraries, depending on the business. If not, your local librarian can answer any questions you may have during your search and help with finding and using any available resources you may need.
