Edith Wheeler Memorial Library Assists Job Hunters

As the country tries to overcome tough economic times, Edith Wheeler Memorial Library in Monroe is doing its part to assist its unemployed patrons with their job searches. It offers job search engines, a Business & Career Center and a workshops to help people get back on their feet.

"The economy seems to be improving, but we still have a lot of people coming in everyday to look for jobs," said Lorna Rhyins, the adult services librarian.

On Tuesday, the Connecticut Department of Labor is presenting "Job Search Strategies: A Career Workshop" from 10 a.m. to noon. To register, call the library at (203) 452-2850 extension 6.

For those who operate their own business, the library is hosting "Trouble Shooting & Managing Resources to Grow Your Business" on Wednesday, Jan. 23, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Ehlers Room. To register, call (203) 452-2850 extension 6 or sign up online at ewml.org.

Rhyins said people can sign up for email updates on adult programs on Edith Wheeler Memorial Library's website.

The library also has a Business & Career Center, which has a dedicated shelf of books and other resources to improve resumes and interviewing skills. Rhyins said she recently added a Job Recruitment Board beside it, where she posts listings from CT Works.

Online resources at the library include Learning Express and JobNow. Accounts may be created for free by using one's library card.

Rhyins said Learning Express allows people to choose careers, access books and take practice exams. JobNow allows users to get assistance with their resumes and to sharpen job interviewing skills online, she said.

Rhyins encourages people to visit the library and ask about these online resources. "Our staff is always willing to help," she said.