Public Libraries Are Becoming Centers for Workforce Development
Public libraries are becoming centers for workforce development by offering programs and career development services at their locations. Increasing demand by job seekers and career changers for the use of educational materials, computers, Wi-Fi and more, make libraries a central location for assistance. Libraries are also partnering across the state of Wisconsin with external organizations to offer expert support, space for hiring events, and access to job search resources.
The first workshop for the Library Workforce Connection (LWC) was held on Friday May 5, 2023, at the Portage Public library. Representatives from multiple libraries connected to share best practices to position their location for workforce assistance within their individual communities.
This was the first of several workshops which are planned across the state of Wisconsin. Speakers from various agencies included the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Employ Milwaukee – Workforce Development, Portage Area Workforce & Service Connection, the South-Central Library System, and the WI SHRM State Council.
Workforce Readiness Director, Kellie Dunn-Poggemann presented on how WI SHRM Chapters could also be a collaborative partner as our chapter members are a recognized HR resource. We all have a need for top talent. Partnering with our libraries to offer HR assistance such as interviewing skills, resume writing, or other key topics would help get talent back to work. The future for this partnership would be to offer public facing programs by our HR professionals.
Interested in you or your organization becoming a volunteer? Connect with your local library!
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