Henrico libraries help job seekers

A few minutes after the Fairfield Branch Library on Laburnum Avenue opens each morning, manager Mike Hatchett knows that each of the library's 32 computers will be occupied.

The majority of users are looking for work.

Henrico County libraries, like thousands across the nation, have become clearinghouses for job seekers. Librarians offer support, help patrons navigate online applications, format résumés, set up e-mail accounts and help job seekers find sites to find jobs in their fields.

"Our job is to inform, refer and facilitate," Hatchett said.

The libraries' Web site, http://www.co.henrico.va.us/library offers resources such as job listings, résumé-building assistance, job-hunt tips and career-change advice.

It's also possible to apply for unemployment benefits online.

For residents not familiar with computers or without a home computer, the world of online applications, résumés and job hunting can be overwhelming. Sometimes Hatchett and his staff find themselves doing much of the work.

"I had a guy applying for a job as a garbage man," he said. "I wound up pulling a chair up next to him and we did the application together."

Some people are intimidated by online job applications. "One woman came in and said, 'All I want to do is fill out a paper application.' I told her, 'If that's how you feel, then you are never going to work again,'" Hatchett said.

With competition so fierce, he said, employers can use online forms as a screening mechanism to find tech-savvy workers.

Patricia S. O'Bannon, Tuckahoe District supervisor, held a town-hall meeting this past week at the Tuckahoe Branch Library. The topic was jobs. O'Bannon recommended county libraries as a first stop for job seekers.

"You can get a lot of TLC at the libraries. You get one-on-one attention many times," she said.

Many libraries have worked with the Capital Area Training Consortium to offer résumé and job-skills workshops. All offer free computer-literacy courses.

In his wallet, Hatchett carries a folded piece of yellow paper. It's a thank-you note from someone he helped with filling out an application. "I got an interview!," the note reads.

"That's what makes it all worthwhile," Hatchett said.

Contact Lisa Crutchfield at (804) 6496362 or .