A well-crafted resume is often the first impression a job-seeker makes with an employer; helping patrons with this provides tangible, career-relevant support.
Key Benefits:
Resource Example: Libraries like the Chicago Public Library highlight online resume tools available via library subscriptions, such as "Got Resume Builder" and "Brainfuse" with live review services.
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Audience: Adults or teens who are new to resume writing
Format:
Follow-up:
Duration: 3-4 weeks, one session per week (60-90 minutes each)
Audience: Job-seekers (including career-changers) who want structured support
Example Session Breakdown:
Showcase:
Duration: 1-2 hours, scheduled weekly or biweekly
Audience: Mixed ages; patrons can arrive with their own draft or start fresh
Format:
Benefits:
Audience: Adults or teens, especially around major job-fair season or local workforce initiatives
Format (Half-Day Event):
Tip: WebJunction provides guidance on recruiting volunteers and HR professionals for resume workshop events like this.
Specific resources you can use or reference in your resume-building programs:
Offers guidance for libraries on resume help: what to include, formatting, best practices, and how to structure resume assistance programs.
A practical guide for libraries on how to plan a resume workshop event, recruit volunteers, and set up effective programming.
Examples from Tulsa City-County Library and Denver Public Library that provide templates, online courses, and resume builder tools. Tulsa library lists templates in MS Word with suggestions for different industries.
Chicago Public Library lists "Got Resume Builder" and "Brainfuse" with live review services. These subscription tools provide step-by-step guidance and professional review options.
External resource recommended for patrons; library partnerships often reference it. Provides federal government-backed resources and tools for job seekers.
Solution: Teach how to highlight volunteer work, education, skills, and projects. Use functional resume formats that emphasize abilities over chronological work history. Provide examples for entry-level candidates.
Solution: Focus on transferable skills. Help identify how past experience applies to new fields. Use summary statements that position the candidate for their target role. Emphasize relevant training and certifications.
Solution: Partner with ESL programs. Have bilingual volunteers available. Focus on clear, simple language. Provide templates with strong example phrases. Consider offering services in multiple languages.
Solution: Teach strategies for addressing gaps honestly and positively. Help frame gap periods in terms of skills maintenance or development. Use functional formats when appropriate. Prepare patrons to discuss gaps in interviews.
Solution: Build a diverse volunteer pool across industries. Create partnerships with professional organizations. Use online tools that provide industry-specific guidance. Maintain a library of sample resumes from various fields.
Solution: Offer drop-in hours alongside appointments. Create self-service resources and templates. Use online resume builders available through library subscriptions. Train more volunteers. Consider group critique sessions.
Once you've established resume services, consider expanding to create a comprehensive career support program:
Related Services to Add:
Gateway Effect: Resume services often introduce patrons to other library resources, increasing overall engagement with digital literacy programs, computer access, and educational materials.