How To Use the Library's Endangered Job Search Tools

A recent workshop at the library featured resources job seekers should take advantage of — before they're gone.

"Helping You is Our Work," was the theme of the talk given at the Bernards Township Library. Ruth Lufkin, the Supervising Reference Librarian from the Bernards Township Library, gave a presentation titled "Job Search @ Your Fingertips" on Tuesday, March 30, offering suggestions and advice to those currently in job transition. The meeting was attended by approximately 60 members of Career Forum, Career Networking Group (CNG) and other job groups. 

Lufkin discussed creative ways to enhance job searches through mining the library's resources. She demonstrated online tools that allow discovery of useful magazine, journal and newspaper information. Lufkin also provided directions on how to obtain information on specific employers and companies, their key personnel and specific industries.  The library also offers research databases that provide aid to job seekers state-wide. 

However, these online databases are in jeopardy of being cut from the library due to budget cuts from the state, so job seekers should take advantage of them soon. They will be available for at least the next year, but could be cut in the 2011-2012 budget if funding is not available for them.

The portal to online information is "JerseyClicks," found at www.JerseyClicks.org.  The site can be accessed at from any terminal at the Bernards Township and other New Jersey libraries or remotely with your library card.  Library cards are available to local residents and can be obtained by presenting proof of residency (driver's license or utility bill) at the library.

JerseyClicks provides access to numerous databases, although those featured as relating to job searchers were EBSCOhost/ProQuest and ReferenceUSA.  EBSCOhost/ProQuest is a site with access to thousands of full-text periodicals, journals and newspapers.  Articles can be viewed, printed and/or emailed.

ReferenceUSA contains specific information on thousands of United States and Canadian public companies.  Information available includes company names, contacts, number of employees, phone listings, references, performance information and industry news.  You can specify and combine criteria to conduct focused searching.  ReferenceUSA is updated daily.

Years ago information contained in EBSCOhost/ProQuest and ReferenceUSA was only available via hardcopy.  Now with on-line access information this information is more easily obtainable and always current.

To learn more about these and other Job Search Tools @ Your Fingertips, visit the Reference Desk at the Bernards Township Library.  The library is located in the heart of Basking Ridge at 32 South Maple Avenue or visit their site at www.BernardsLibrary.org.  The library offers an environment with no distractions, PC terminals and free Wifi access and, of course, reference librarians to assist in your efforts.

The Career Forum is a free program sponsored by the Somerset Hills YMCA and provides a forum for job seekers to learn more about the job hunting process, share network contacts, and to help each other through a period of unemployment.  The group meets every Tuesday at the YMCA from 7:30 to 9:30pm.  To learn more visit: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Somerset_YMCA_Career_Forum.

The Career Networking Group (CNG) is a professional forum that facilitates career transition and management.  Group members share contacts, information, resources, support and encouragement with those seeking new career opportunities. CNG meets on the first and third Thursdays evenings of each month at the Bernards Township.  For information, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CareerNetworkingGroup.