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    Resources & Services for Libraries

    Workforce Development and Libraries

    Public Libraries: Your Partner in Workforce Development

    ​Public libraries are eager to work with other agencies to more closely align with local workforce development activities. Here are some of the assets that public libraries bring to the table:

    1. Library services are available at no charge for library card holders. To get a card, community residents need up-to-date identification (such as a driver’s license).
    2. Libraries offer extended evening and weekend hours.
    3. Libraries have computers with high-speed Internet connections for public use.
    4. Libraries have books and specialized online reference resources about occupations, schools, financial aid, resume-writing, interview techniques, employers and skill improvement.
    5. Libraries have staff who are trained to help people with information and technology questions.
    6. Many libraries offer meeting rooms and free classes on careers, resume-writing, and technology. Some provide annual job fairs and networking events for employers and job seeks. Some also have MakerSpaces to learn about high-tech equipment and skills.

    PAsmart

    PAsmart is an initiative with the goal to expand inclusion in STEM and computer science teaching and learning, to help ensure students across Pennsylvania have the skills to meet the economic needs of the dynamic Pennsylvania economy.

    PAsmart grant and additional information

    Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

    The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) specifically identifies public libraries as possible partners for One-Stop Career Centers (known as CareerLinks in Pennsylvania).  

    Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

    Developing Workforce Agency Partnerships

    Recommendations about how libraries can collaborate with local agencies:

    1. Be familiar with your community's Local Workforce Development Area(s) (LWDA).​
    2. Coordinate your communications with nearby libraries that are located in your LWDA.
    3. Meet with your local Workforce Development Board’s (WDB) executive director. Introduce yourself and the libraries in the LWDA’s geographic area.
    • Tell them about the services that your library provides to job seekers and employers.
    • Discuss how you can participate in the WDB’s planning process.  Could you make a presentation to the WDB or be part of planning meetings?
    • Discuss how you can help make local workforce development services more accessible and cost-effective. Some examples are: