Let’s say you’ve hit a wall in your current career. Maybe you’re feeling unmotivated or underappreciated at the workplace, yet starting over is overwhelming without knowing where to start. Thankfully, the Aurora Public Library District is here to help! We’ve got resources in-person and online to help you advance in your career journey or find a new path all together.
Nowadays, advanced technology plays a critical role in the ways people search for jobs and how employers find their candidates. For job seekers, the internet offers a wealth of tools and information like resume templates and sample interview questions. For employers, AI technology plays a major role in their hiring process. To help make sense of this, APLD offers one-one-one sessions with Career Coaches who have extensive backgrounds in career training and human resources. “Our coaches understand the importance of technological literacy and keeping up with trends in the current job market,” said our business and career services librarian, Chris. “Namely, they understand that many companies now use what are called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process, and how resumes can easily be discarded if they aren’t formatted to be read by ATS systems. Our coaches also understand the relevance of AI and can offer advice on how job seekers can use AI to their advantage.” During your session, a Career Coach will meet with you for up to 30 minutes (available in English and Spanish) to help with starting a resume, exploring career options, or answer questions you may have. This walk-in service is held twice a month at the Santori Library and does not require registration. If that doesn’t fit your schedule, our Business Librarian Chris is also available for appointments either in-person at the Santori Library, by phone, or virtually.
In addition to our one-on-one services, the library is offering a special program that takes a holistic approach to preparing our customers for their ‘next step’. Our upcoming Fresh Start: Back to School & Job Readiness Fair will offer headshots and haircuts which can help customers build their portfolio in preparation for the job market or for starting their first day at a new job. The event will also feature a resource fair with information from community partners and a variety of other free services. “We want to ensure that everyone in our community has the tools to thrive,” added Chris. This event, Saturday, Aug. 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Santori Library Atrium, will be a one-stop fair designed to help job seekers and students start the season strong.
As an alternative to coming into the library, we’ve got some fantastic databases and virtual content to help while you’re at home or need assistance on your own time. The three most utilized are AtoZ Databases, LinkedIn Learning Library, and JobNow. AtoZ Databases provides detailed company profiles, contact information, and job listings, making it easier to research potential employers, identify hiring opportunities, and connect directly with companies. The LinkedIn Learning Library benefits job seekers by offering thousands of expert-led online courses that build in-demand skills to help you stay competitive in the job market. It also provides personalized learning paths tailored to specific careers or industries. Lastly, JobNow offers their own one-on-one career coaching, resume assistance, and interview practice, providing real-time feedback and personalized guidance to improve job search success. People in every stage of job searching or career development can utilize these resources and access them for free with an APLD library card.
With personalized coaching, events catering to the holistic job seeker, and accessible digital tools, APLD empowers you to take charge of your career journey with confidence. Upcoming Walk-In with a Career Coach sessions are on Thursdays, Aug. 14 and 28 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Santori Library.
For more information about our job help databases or to make an appointment with Chris, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/business. Whether you’re just beginning your job search, considering a career change, or simply looking to sharpen your skills, APLD is here to support you every step of the way!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.