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Career & Job Resources

Whether you're just starting out, changing careers, or returning to the workforce, finding a job can be tough.  We can help you land the right position and answer your questions along the way.

Questions?  Please contact our Workforce Development team at workforce@lexpublib.org.

 

Did you know? 73% of libraries help with job searches. 48% provide access to and assist entrepreneurs with online business information resources.

Start here:

What Does a Job Seeker Need?

Upcoming Events

Additional Resources

 

What Does a Job Seeker Need?

1.  Resume

This document lists your current and previous jobs, along with your skills and accomplishments.  The purpose of a resume is to obtain an interview from an employer.

Take a look at an example of an entry-level resume.
 
Here is a mid-level career resume example.
 
If you are focused on a managerial position, review this IT resume.
 
Need to create or update yours? Watch this video and then try the resume builder in the LearningExpress Library’s Job and Career Accelerator!  (Learning Express Library can be accessed for free with your library card.)
 
These final tips may help you polish your resume! (Thanks to Vaco.com for the resume tips.)
 
If you’d like to have your resume reviewed, ask the online reviewers from the Brainfuse Adult Learning Center for feedback.  (Brainfuse can be accessed for free with your library card.)

 

2.  Cover Letter

A cover letter accompanies your resume when applying for most jobs.  Each cover letter is specifically written to an employer describing you are a match for a position.

Guidance on developing a cover letter that will help you get noticed by an employer is available through LearningExpress Library's Job and Career Accelerator in “Great Cover Letters.”  To create your cover letters, try "Build Your Letter."

 

3.  Online Applications

Employers may also request that you complete a job application on its website.  You will most likely be required to type information about your job history into an online application that will be sent directly to the employer through the computer.  Having a resume will be helpful, but also completing a list of your work history in advance will make the process smoother.

If you would want to save your work history, you could also complete this online application builder. Once you’ve added your work history, you can download or print it to help you apply for future jobs online.

 

4.  Interview Preparation

Once you’ve prepared your resume, cover letter and application, it’s time to get ready for interviews that will come your way.  Interviews are opportunities for you and a prospective employer to determine if a particular job is a solid fit for both parties.  To put your best foot forward, consider reviewing the "Interview with Confidence" course found in LearningExpress Library's Job and Career Accelerator.

Be sure to research the companies that you are considering for employment.  You can Google the company information, visit the company’s webpage, or search the company’s profile using EBSCO's Business Source tool.  (Business Source can be accessed for free with your library card.)

When you’re ready to practice what you’ve learned, go online to Interview Warmup to get some feedback before the big interview.  If you have a phone or video interview, peruse some focused tips to stand out.

After every interview, don’t forget to send that all-important thank-you letter.  You can find examples in LearningExpress Library's Job and Career Accelerator.

 

5.  Negotiation of Job Offers

You’ve applied for a job, completed an amazing interview and now, you’ve received the coveted job offer.  How should you proceed?

Negotiating a job offer involves a variety of factors based upon your circumstances.  Google has a webinar to help you develop your game plan: Negotiate Like A Pro.

Upcoming Events

Do you need help with your job search? Are you looking to polish your resume?

Then this Resume Help Drop-In is for you! Every Wednesday morning from 10 am - 12 pm, you can drop in at the Beaumont Branch to get personalized one-on-one help with your job hunt. 
Laptops will be available to use to build your resume, and USB drives will be provided for your electronic document storage.
Wed. April 5th - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Beaumont Branch
ksmith@lexpublib.org
8592315500 x2028
Join the Lexington Public Library for a presentation about how to Collaborate, Meet and Work Remotely!!

Learn about Google tools that can help you work and stay productive no matter where you are. Plus, get

tips on more free online resources to help you gain new digital skills.

Event Link: Coming Soon! Watch the webinar replay on Youtube @lexlibrary

Event Handout: https://www.lexpublib.org/sites/default/files/file_uploads/handout_collaborate_meet_and_work_remotely.pdf

***If you need verification of attendance, email workforce@lexpublib.org

In this session we'll show you how to:

  • Schedule and host effective virtual meetings

  • Collaborate on documents with others in real time

Wed. April 5th - 11:00am to 12:00pm
Other Location
workforce@lexpublib.org

The Lexington Public Library will host a Take Home Job Fair on Thursday, April 6, 2023. Stop by any of our six locations and pick up
a tote filled with job openings featuring employers in the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics sectors.  While supplies last!

Thu. April 6th - 12:00am
All Branches
ldavis@lexpublib.org
8592315537

LPL will host an onsite job fair featuring employers from the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics sectors. The event will take place in the Large Conference Room at the Northside Branch from 10:30 AM-2:30 PM. Interested job seekers will get to meet with companies to learn about their open positions. 

Thu. April 6th - 10:30am to 2:30pm
Northside Branch

Do you need help with your job search? Are you looking to polish your resume?

Then this Resume Help Drop-In is for you! Every Wednesday morning from 10 am - 12 pm, you can drop in at the Beaumont Branch to get personalized one-on-one help with your job hunt. 
Laptops will be available to use to build your resume, and USB drives will be provided for your electronic document storage.
Wed. April 12th - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Beaumont Branch
ksmith@lexpublib.org
8592315500 x2028

Join the Lexington Public Library at the webinar, Communicate with Calendar and Gmail.

Use Google Calendar and Gmail to share important dates, reminders and events with others. Sharing
schedules help you become a better communicator. Effective communication defines expectations,
improves teamwork, and builds trust. 

Event Link: Watch the replay webinar on Youtube @lexlibrary

Event Handout: https://www.lexpublib.org/sites/default/files/file_uploads/handout_communicate_with_calendar_and_gmail.pdf

In this session we'll show you how to:

  • Create new calendars, send, and accept event invites on Google Calendars

  • How to create a professional email signature in Gmail

Wed. April 12th - 11:00am to 12:00pm
Other Location
workforce@lexpublib.org

The Lexington Public Library presents: Learn the Basics of Google Drive.

Get to know how to store and share files in Google Drive. Discover how Google Drive keeps files safe and secure. Practice using your Drive and get helpful tips about how to keep it organized. This workshop is designed for learners who are new to digital tools.

Event Link: Coming Soon! Webinar Replay on YouTube @lexlibrary

Event Handout: https://www.lexpublib.org/sites/default/files/file_uploads/handout_learn_the_basics_of_google_drive_.pdf

In this workshop we'll discuss and practice how to:

  • Add files and folders to your Google Drive

  • Move files and folders 

  • Search for files and folders 

Wed. April 19th - 10:00am to 11:00am
Other Location
workforce@lexpublib.org

Do you need help with your job search? Are you looking to polish your resume?

Then this Resume Help Drop-In is for you! Every Wednesday morning from 10 am - 12 pm, you can drop in at the Beaumont Branch to get personalized one-on-one help with your job hunt. 
Laptops will be available to use to build your resume, and USB drives will be provided for your electronic document storage.
Wed. April 19th - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Beaumont Branch
ksmith@lexpublib.org
8592315500 x2028

Do you need help with your job search? Are you looking to polish your resume?

Then this Resume Help Drop-In is for you! Every Wednesday morning from 10 am - 12 pm, you can drop in at the Beaumont Branch to get personalized one-on-one help with your job hunt. 
Laptops will be available to use to build your resume, and USB drives will be provided for your electronic document storage.
Wed. April 26th - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Beaumont Branch
ksmith@lexpublib.org
8592315500 x2028

Discover how Google Calendar can keep you on time and organized. In this introductory workshop, add events and reminders to your calendar, and share them with others. This workshop is designed for learners who are new to digital tools.

Event Link: Coming Soon!! Webinar Replay video on YouTube @lexlibrary

Event Handout: https://www.lexpublib.org/sites/default/files/file_uploads/handout_learn_the_basics_of_google_calendar_1.pdf

In this workshop we'll discuss and practice how to:

  • Create an event in Google Calendar

  • Use notifications and privacy settings

  • Set up a repeating event

  • Create a shared calendar with other people

Wed. April 26th - 11:00am to 12:00pm
Other Location
workforce@lexpublib.org

Do you need help with your job search? Are you looking to polish your resume?

Then this Resume Help Drop-In is for you! Every Wednesday morning from 10 am - 12 pm, you can drop in at the Beaumont Branch to get personalized one-on-one help with your job hunt. 
Laptops will be available to use to build your resume, and USB drives will be provided for your electronic document storage.
Wed. May 3rd - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Beaumont Branch
ksmith@lexpublib.org
8592315500 x2028

Additional Resources

Library Resources

These services can be accessed for free with your library card.  Book a Librarian for a quick, one-on-one tutorial.

Career Preparation

Are you preparing for a professional exam? Are you curious about a particular occupation or looking to improve your workplace skills? Choose the Career Preparation Center and begin your path to a bright future.  Provided by the Kentucky Virtual Library.

Computer Skills Center

Video courses are the fastest and easiest way to learn how to use a computer. Use the materials in this center to learn the basics of using a computer, navigating the internet, and using popular software programs from Microsoft and Adobe. Achieve basic to advanced skills in word processing, creating spreadsheets and databases, implementing design and more.

Job & Career Accelerator

Whether you’re looking to find a new job in your current field or pursue a career in an exciting new industry, Job & Career Accelerator has the powerful tools and expert guidance to help you through every step of the process to succeed in today's job market.  Provided by the Kentucky Virtual Library.

LinkedIn Learning

Helps anyone learn software, technology, creative, and business skills to achieve their personal and professional goals. Users receive unlimited access to a vast library of high-quality, current, and engaging video tutorials taught by recognized industry experts.


Download the LinkedIn Learning app!
(Note:  To log into the mobile app, enter lex for your Library ID.  You will be prompted to enter your library card number and PIN.)

Web Resources

These are examples of sites with job listings for national or regional employers.

Job Searching Sites

Local Employers

Government Careers

These are examples of websites that provide free e-mail accounts.

E-mail Providers