In response to the rise in unemployment and downturn in our economy, libraries throughout Ohio and the nation have expanded programs and services to help job seekers. The demand has increased the need for staff training to help job seekers search collections and utilize online resources. Many libraries, particularly those in rural areas, have further developed their roles as one-stop centers for finding information about community, state, and federal services and employment related opportunities.

 

Earlier this year, the State Library developed an area on WebJunction Ohio for helping job seekers. Included in this section are ideas, resources, and reports for libraries. In the  Find Help in Tough Times section of our website, we provide a central location for residents that includes links to information for finding help with Employment, Finance, Health & Wellness, Housing, Parenting and issues unique to Seniors. The Find Help in Tough Times logo is available for libraries to use on their websites and on bookmarks for printing.

 

The LearningExpress Library’s usage for new tutorials and tests for Computer Skills, Job Search & Workplace Skills, Job & Careers, and Skill Building for Adults has seen a steady increase. The LearningExpress Librarians Resources center includes tools and information for librarians such as News and Announcements, Print Materials, Tips and Tools for Getting the Word Out, and MARC Records. To access the Librarians Resource center you need to login with the username: learningexpresslibrarian and password: welcome. The State Library website’s Media Center also has a collection of Ohio-specific downloadable flyers, instructions, and learning maps.

 

In this issue you will read about our recent Find Help in Tough Times webinar for library staff that we hosted with representatives from eight state agencies. This issue also includes articles about Job Scamming and a Career Services Center. In addition, there is a compiled list of web links to libraries with Helping Job Seekers resources for sharing strategies and ideas.

 

The State Library staff is committed to helping librarians better serve their library communities. Find Help in Tough Times was just one way that we thought we could assist you as you help your library customers. If you have any additions to suggest or ideas of additional ways we can assist you, please do not hesitate to let us know. Remember: you are our customers and it is important to us to provide excellent customer service to you, especially during these tough times that have descended upon all of us.