Many people without computer access utilize public libraries in order to apply for jobs online. (Many minimum-wage jobs now require online applications.) Customers also use the computers to prepare resumes and file claims for unemployment benefits. Public libraries can let funders know how their services are assisting job seekers in order to secure funding.

Public libraries can help fill this dire need by tailoring computer and career services and job searching materials to help this population. One service that greatly helps job seekers is extended computer time (two hours is helpful). Increasing the number of public computers available can also help. (Many computers have been donated to public libraries by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.) Libraries can offer computer classes to job seekers on searching for jobs online. Human resources professionals who work for the library can give job search workshops for the public. Job listings can be posted on bulletin boards, and career counselors can be made available to the public.

Crisis in Employment: A Librarian's Guide to Helping Job Seekers by Jane Jerrard, 2009

I see job seekers every day at the libraries I work with, and this book enlightened me about job searching resources that I was unaware of.

• Jane Jerrard's web site
• Books on job searching
• Career Cruising database at NYPL
• Is This Thing On?: A Computer Handbook for Late Bloomers, Technophobes, and the Kicking and Screaming by Abigail Stokes
• Job Search Central @ SIBL
• "Job Seeking in U.S. Public Libraries" by ALA
• NYS Department of Labor Career Services
• Workforce 1