Need a Job? GP Librarians Want to Help

Librarians are a wealth of knowledge and with a point in one direction or another, or even a few quick keystrokes, they can expand the world of resources for the general public.

A series of informational sessions offered through the Grosse Pointe Public Library called Job Resources at Your Library aims to do just that for job seekers, Central Branch librarian Danis Houser said.

A session scheduled for March 22 at the Woods Branch runs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event is free but registration is recommended.

"There are so many resources," Houser said. "Physical, on the Web and the knowledge of librarians. I don't think most people understand. ... We're not just sitting here reading the latest best sellers."

One of the  many resources available to library patrons is Reference USA, which is the most expensive and most useful database available, Houser said. This database, available to Grosse Pointe Public Library users, allows for job seekers to search for a specific kind of job in a particular zip code. 

Reference USA also allows job seekers to gather a bit of research about potential employers or even for local business owners to gather comparison information in preparing to open a small business, Houser said. 

The Grosse Pointe libraries also have an exchange system within the statewide library system called the Michigan e-Library, allowing users to request materials not immediately available at the local branches. 

"We're not claiming to be comprehensive but we will reveal some of the hidden features they didn't know about," Houser said. 

The session offered later this month is the fourth in the series and Houser said they hope to have a full house. Attendance has been sporadic but one trend Houser has noticed is many of those seeking employment who attend are older men who were likely late in their careers when they found themselves in the unemployment line. 

An important factor for those who have been employed for years is that looking for a job today is much different than it was 25 years ago, or even five years, Houser said. "It can be overwhelming," she said.

The session aims to give attendees the information to empower their search with stronger resources, Houser said.