CCPL Job Skills Technology Program

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

The Job Skills Technology Program increases computer literacy for job seekers in Chesterfield County. The Central Branch of the Chesterfield County Public Library (CCPL) in partnership with the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services (Social Services) created a curriculum to address gaps in knowledge in current technologies that can hinder today’s job seeker. CCPL and Social Services identified many recent changes in the process of locating job openings, completing applications, and even dealing with computerized tasks in the workplace. Many jobs today are only filled through online procedures and an increasing number of employers expect their employees to be able to use computers for tasks ranging from submitting timecards to completing in-house training modules. Social Services administers the Job Club as part of the Virginia Initiative for Employment Not Welfare (VIEW). CCPL’s collaboration with Social Services provides experienced technology trainers, a computer learning lab, related materials and independent living resources to the customers who are retooling to make themselves marketable in our community. In addition to Job Club members, other community members can make an appointment with a CCPL librarian for technology training. Thanks to the Job Skills Technology Program, participants are prepared to attend job fairs, submit online applications, and use their new email addresses; demonstrating to potential employers that they are ready for the demands of the technology-driven workplace.