Job searches made easy at Heights Libraries
When David Cottle’s job was downsized in March of 2010, he was left in a tough spot. He had a wife and four children to support and the job market was dismal. He had ample experience, but had not conducted a job search in more than 15 years.
Cottle turned to the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library for help.
According to the American Library Association, more than 3,000 people each day receive job-related help from libraries. Locally, Heights Libraries is a great resource for job search books and materials. There are hundreds of options, with titles ranging from Killer Interview to Winning the Job. Staff provide recommendations and point customers in the right direction.
Job search services at the library are not limited to books alone, however. Through the computer classroom and a dedicated 20-unit computer lab, Heights Libraries offers a variety of services. An employment and job resource lab provides advanced and basic skills on how to find employment, retrain for the modern workforce and utilize technology to aid a job search. Details on this course and other employment classes can be found at www.chuhpl.lib.oh.us.
Library staff also provide individualized support tailored to meet specific needs, but many people just need to be brought up to speed with current employment practices. “Everything is done online and many people need help preparing and submitting resumes,” said Joseph Kaiser, Heights Libraries technology training supervisor, adding “Many top-level employers no longer accept hardcopy submissions of resumes.”
David Cottle took advantage of a variety of services. Staff helped him update his resume, showed him how to post online resumes, directed him to job search databases, and, most importantly, according to Cottle, gave him moral support. “Joe and his staff went above and beyond,” said Cottle. “You could tell they really cared about me and my success.”
Within months, Cottle had received two job offers and is currently determining which is best for his future. He credits Heights Libraries for his success. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of the employment resources at the library,” urged Cottle.
Dean Schnurr is the marketing and community relations manager for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library.