Sno-Isle Libraries offer Your Next Job program

In response to the high unemployment in the area, Sno-Isle Libraries has now made available the Your Next Job program to help people find their path to employment.

The free program began on Dec. 7 in Snohomish and Island counties.

Sno-Isle Libraries is partnering with Seattle Public Library and the King County Library System, which launched the program this summer.

"The Seattle Public Library and the King County Library System started this program in response to the unemployment crisis that we are seeing in this area," said Emily Felt, adult services coordinator at Sno-Isle Libraries.

Those interested can begin through the Seattle Public Library's website at spl.org/YourNextJob. A Spanish version is available at spl.org/SuProximoTrabajo. Services are also currently provided in 11 other languages besides English.

Job seekers can also call in at 206-386-4636 or by e-mailing [email protected].

"One thing that is amazing about this program is that it is designed for those who have the most barriers to access," said Felt, who added the library hopes to reach those who have language or technology barriers. "We are intentionally reaching out to those still learning some digital literacy skills."

During initial contact, either through the website or through the phone, participants can talk about what they are hoping to do.

Afterward, the program consists of 30-minute one-on-one appointments between a job-seeker and library staff.

"If we went to one of the community colleges and asked to get a credential they would sit down and tell us to take this class and this class, help to map the path to get there. This service is about a librarian helping you map the path," said Felt.

Staff is also in contact with other organizations that can help with related problems that participants are facing.

"We know there will people who need access to case management or funding and we partner with community organizations to make those referrals," said Felt.

Sno-Isle Libraries has already had at least one appointment, which went well, said Felt. Further south in King County and Seattle, the program has helped more than a hundred people, said Felt, many who have come for multiple appointments.

"You are free to schedule as many follow up appointments as needed," she said.

Follow-up surveys show a high satisfaction with the program so far in King County, said Felt.

Ninety-two percent of the participants either agreed or strongly agreed that their goals were understood and that their questions were answered.

Many also appreciated help navigating the modern job market.

"For many patrons, the Your Next Job service allowed them the time and space to approach the employment process in an organized fashion. Patrons frequently expressed that they were overwhelmed by the process on their own and needed the guidance," said Felt.

Felt said it was common to be confused by current employment resources.

"I've been a job seeker and recognize that it can be a really overwhelming space to be in," she said. "There's a lot of different resources to pursue and it can be really hard to figure out what that next best step is."

Survey responses also said the program has helped individuals who may have trouble receiving support elsewhere.

"Another common theme is the library is a safe space to seek guidance and support, especially for groups with many barriers (e.g. age, language, financial, transportation)," said Felt.

Felt said she was glad that Sno-Isle Libraries was able to partner to bring the program to local libraries.

"We're really excited about this unique free resource that we've been able to create," she said.