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January 5, 2009

Libraries tout job services

Gloucester County Times
Monday, December 22, 2008
By Jessica Driscoll
jdriscoll@sjnewsco.com
With so many Americans facing tighter budgets, significant lifestyle changes and even job losses, there is an increasing need for a one-stop shop to help them get back on their feet Ð a need that can easily be met in many communities.

"When people think of a library, they think of books Ð which is wonderful Ð but we're so much more," said Carol Wolf, manager of the Glassboro branch of the Gloucester County Library System.

"In the last three months, we have hosted two resume writing classes, an interview class and monthly computer classes. We have also had about 500 different users conducting 2,000 Internet sessions per month, many of whom were filling out online applications to places like Home Depot, Wal-Mart and Lowe's."

Wolf said libraries have always been a great community resource, but they tend to attract more patrons during tough economic times. She said a woman came in a few months ago seeking help with health insurance, food and employment after being referred by her congressman's office. The library staff promptly directed her to the Glassboro Family Health Center, which didn't require insurance; the Samaritan House, which offers food and clothing to the needy; and the borough's One Stop center to help her find a job.

Wolf said the patron was surprised but relieved by the help she found.

"In addition, we offer lots of free programming and entertainment for children and adults," said Wolf. "In January, we'll offer a basic Microsoft Word class. In February, we'll have a basic Excel class and a two-part resume program run by a Fortune 500 business trainer. And, we have many children's programs, which are a great alternative to other forms of entertainment, which can get expensive."

Glassboro's library is not the only one offering assistance to members of the community. At the Deptford Public Library, patrons can access a reproducible book from the IRS for help with taxes, while the AARP offers free tax services on-site for senior citizens and low-income residents in February.

The libraries also offer free wireless Internet access, several public computers, and story or craft programs for children.

"People are finding that, now more than ever, they have to cut corners and not spend as much," said Jean McGowan, supervisor of circulation at Deptford's public library. "You can come here and find old books, new books, Internet resources and, for children's programming, it's a really good deal. Libraries are safe, friendly places where the community can come together in tough times."

At the Margaret E. Heggan library in Washington Township, Director Linda Snyder said that, despite a lack of space in its current facility, the library is always available to help with resume-writing programs on its public computers, pre-school programming and an informed staff.

And at the Free Public Library of Monroe Township, Director Beth Lillie said that patrons can save money that they'd normally spend on home Internet service and on magazine and newspaper subscriptions by visiting their local public library.

"A library is a place where people can come together and enjoy something that they don't have to shell out money for," said Lillie.

"We also offer access to sites and databases where people can find jobs or get help with taxes and community programs run by volunteers," she added. "People are coming in more and more, talking about their economic worries and looking for help."

In Glassboro, Wolf said she has already seen an increase in library usage over the last several months, and she expects those numbers to grow. It's a trend that the experienced librarian welcomes and encourages.

"We will be here to help our patrons as much as we can Ð even if it means pointing them in another direction," said Wolf. "Libraries must reflect the needs of their communities."

Posted by tumulty at January 5, 2009 6:25 PM

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