Public Libraries: Your Partner in Workforce Development
Public libraries are eager to work with other agencies to more closely align with local workforce development activities. Here are some of the assets that public libraries bring to the table:
- Library
services are available at no charge for library card holders. To get a card, community residents need up-to-date identification (such as a driver’s license).
- Libraries offer
extended evening and weekend hours.
- Libraries have
computers with high-speed Internet connections for public use.
- Libraries have
books and specialized online reference resources about occupations, schools, financial aid, resume-writing, interview techniques, employers and skill improvement.
- Libraries also have
test preparation practice guides (print and online) for academic, military, occupational, licensing, high school equivalency, English as a second language, and workplace assessment such as WorkKeys.
- Libraries have
staff who are trained to help people with information and technology questions.
- Many libraries offer
meeting rooms and free classes on careers, resume-writing, and technology. Some provide annual job fairs and networking events for employers and job seeks. Some also have
MakerSpaces to learn about high-tech equipment and skills.
The majority of public libraries in Pennsylvania are non-profit organizations; others are agencies of municipal or county government. Public libraries in Pennsylvania are assigned to one of 29 District Library Center areas. (See map below.) Each District Library Center has a designated headquarters library that provides reference services. These District Library Centers can help you identify libraries that might best suit your specific needs.
