Good day! Please excuse cross-postings.

The Heldrich Center at Rutgers University has published a new report of the relationships between public libraries and workforce development systems. Whether you have an academic interest in this topic or whether you find it helpful to make the case for your libraries to your funders, the report highlights the important role that public libraries play in job-seeking and career services.

"Findings from the study report<http://heldrich.rutgers.edu/sites/default/files/products/uploads/Public_Libraries_Career_Services_Report.pdf>, written by Stephanie Holcomb, Amy Dunford, and Fopefoluwa Idowu, include:

  *   Seventy-five percent (75%) of survey respondents reported that libraries in their state provide career services. Most library staff respondents describe a strong demand for career services; for some, demand has slowed with the improving economy, but for a few, the demand has increased.
  *   Respondents reported that public libraries are regarded as accessible alternatives to traditional workforce service providers due to their flexibility, accessibility, and openness to all patrons. However, library staff reported that not all community members and potential partners are aware that libraries play a role in the workforce system.
  *   Survey respondents noted that their public libraries have partnerships with nonprofit organizations (79%), One-Stop Career Centers/American Job Centers (69%), and community colleges or universities (69%).
  *   Respondents noted that the lack of funding affects programming. Among other challenges, this leads to variation in what libraries can offer, with some providing formal workforce development programming and others offering informal job search support."

You can access the summary of findings as well as a PDF of the full report here: http://heldrich.rutgers.edu/newsroom/new-report-public-libraries-community%E2%80%99s-connection-career-services

Respectfully,
Lisa


Lisa M. Shaw
Maine State Library
Rural & Small Libraries Specialist
145 Harlow St.
Bangor ME 04401
(207) 947-8336 xt 114
(207) 217-1565 (mobile)
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