FIND THAT PERFECT JOB - IT'S STILL POSSIBLE!

It's still possible to find that "perfect job", even in this economy. The library can help!

Check out the following books:

"Knock 'em Dead 2009: The Ultimate Job Search Guide" by Martin John Yate
"The Job Search Solution" by Tony Beshara
"60 Seconds & You're Hired" by Robin Ryan


Need help polishing up your resume or interview skills? Take a look at these:

"301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions" by Vicky Oliver
"Resumes for Dummies" by Joyce Kennedy
"No-Nonsense Resumes" by Wendy Enelow


There are many others. Search the ECRL catalog or ask your librarian for assistance. ECRL staff can also point out our "Web Links" page and the "LearningExpress Library" database.

There are many excellent internet sites that can help you in your job search.

---Go to the library homepage: http://www.ecrlib.org/
---Click on the "Reference Desk" link on the left
---Click on "Web Links", then "Employment"

Minnesota residents may want to pay particular attention to the following sites:

---"Minnesota Jobs"
---"Minnesota's Job Bank"
---"Workforce Centers"


The library also has access to a very helpful database: "LearningExpress Library".


With LearningExpress you can polish up your basic math, reading, writing, and grammar skills, take tests geared toward specific careers (military, nursing, civil service, teaching, law enforcement, and more), as well as get tips on effective interview techniques, job search strategies, and writing resumes.

---Go to the ECRL homepage: http://www.ecrlib.org/
---Click on "Magazines & Databases" on the left
---Scroll down to "Learning Express Library" and click on the blue "Learn A Test" link
---New users must click on "register". You can then create your own, confidential, account and add tests and courses to "My Center". You can use the database wherever you have access to a computer - home, work, school, or in the library.

Stop by your local ECRL branch library for an introduction to "Learning Express Library". We have a helpful brochure that will guide you through account setup and taking the online tests. Staff are happy to answer any questions you may have!

Bob Gray
Reference and Interlibrary Loan Librarian

A Maroon and White Bus

The small maroon and white bus pulled into the parking lot. Ebenezer Meadows Campus was painted on the side. The driver got out and opened the doors that made the bus handicap accessible with a lift. Slowly the lift was lowered and one by one the occupants were out of the bus and ready to come into the library. Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, independently; one-by-one they made their way into the building.

Three of them needed library cards; two came for the ride. They looked over different parts of the library. Then they checked out a few books and were on their way.

This will become part of their routine; every two weeks they will be able to visit our branch and see the world with different eyes. I’m excited about this opportunity for them and for us. They get a “road trip” and we have a new occasion to serve area residents. Hopefully, more campus residents will become eager at the prospect of visiting the library.

The facility program coordinator will be ordering Bi-Folkal Kits for them and other people at the campus to remember the old days…remember farm days, remember the Depression, remember school days, and remember work life. These and many other topics are covered with individual kits. Each kit includes an extensive program manual, a media presentation, sing along booklets, things to touch and a carrying case. Some have even more.

These kits are multi-media and multi-sensory to prompt memories and discussion. They are the perfect choice for programs and activities for older adults and mixed age groups in senior centers, retirement communities, nursing homes and other settings. If you are interested in finding out more about the Bi-Folkal Kits, stop in at your local East Central Regional Library branch or contact Vicki at 763-689-7390 x13.

I’m looking forward to seeing that maroon and white bus. Once it’s part of the routine, I’ll be planning some inter-generational activities.

Rebecca J. Hostetler, Branch Librarian
Giese Memorial Library, Wyoming