Looking for a job? Find help at any Library location or visit the Job Resource Center on Level 5 of the Central Library. For more information call 206-386-4636 or Ask a Librarian.   Getting Started Career Discovery & Job Skills Cover Letter & Resume Job Search Prepare for an Interview Unemployment Benefits

The Seattle Public Library has partnered with WorkSource Seattle-King County to become a WorkSource Connection Site.

More and more, searching and applying for jobs occur online. You will need to know how to navigate the Internet and have an e-mail address.

FREE classes - Learn how to use a computer, get an e-mail address, or improve basic English skills. We also have classes on resume writing and job searching.

FREE e-mail address - Learn how to set up an e-mail address.

FREE voice mail access - No telephone? A Community Voice Mail agency can provide voice mail access so potential employers can leave messages.

FREE resources - The Job Resource Center on Level 5 of the Central Library has computers and reference items to help with your job search. You may use a computer for two hours per day, which does not count toward your general Internet time.

Don't know which job would be right for you? Thinking about a career change or going back to school?

WOIS/The Career Information System - Washington state information on salaries, educational programs, schools and training requirements for various jobs. Includes skills assessments and career interest exercises. To use this resource from home, call the Library at 206-386-4636 for login information. Watch our video.

The Occupational Handbook Online - Information on training and education, earnings, expected job prospects, what workers do on the job, working conditions, job search tips, links to information about the job market in each state, and more.

CareerOneStop - Wage and Salary Information - Salary information by occupation, location, highest paying jobs. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.

LearningExpress Library - Interactive test preparation for the civil service, firefighters, law enforcement, military, nursing, real estate, teaching and more.

O*NET OnLine - Information on occupations.

Safari Books Online - Improve your computer and business skills. Access more than 1,000 digital books on computing, databases, programming, Web design and more.

Workforce Explorer Washington - Labor market information and forecasts from the state of Washington.

Check out books and other items about choosing a career.

Live Resume Help - Use your Library card to get free help proof reading a resume or cover letter seven days a week from 3p.m. - 11 p.m.

Resume Worksheet (PDF) - Use this worksheet to record your previous jobs and activities. You will need this information when creating a resume or applying for jobs.

Resume Builder - Create resumes using a step-by-step interview. See sample resumes and cover letters from professionals. Get job seeking advice and interview help with online interview questions and answers. You can use this database from home. Watch our video.

Check out books and other items about cover letters and writing resumes.

WorkSource Washington - Online resume writing tips.

Job hunting is going online. Employers advertise job openings in three ways:

Individual company Web sites - Interested in a job at a specific company? Look on the company's Web site.

Industry trade Web sites & listservs - Trade associations advertise jobs online. We can help you identify trade associations for your industry.

Local and national job Web sites - List local and national job openings. Here are a few examples:

• AARP Job Search - For people over 50.
• CareerBuilder
• Craigslist
• HotJobs
• Monster
• NWjobs
• USAJOBS - Search for U.S. government jobs using the official job site of the United States federal government.
• VetJobs - For veterans of military service.
• WorkSource Washington
• End of list

Networking - A successful job hunt requires strategy. You may need to network with family, friends and colleagues to find job leads. Some jobs are only advertised by word-of-mouth.

Check out books and other items about job hunting.

Most employers interview candidates to find the best person for the job. During an interview you will explain your skills and interest in the job. You also will want to pay attention to appropriate interview behavior. Here are a few tips:

• Find out something about the company or organization before the interview
• Review your accomplishments before your interview
• Dress appropriately
• Be on time
• Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet
• Try to relax. Avoid signs of nervousness such as tapping your foot, drumming your fingers, etc.
• End of list

WorkSource Washington - Online interviewing tips.

Check out books and other items about interview skills.

Claim Unemployment Benefits - The Employment Security Department of Washington state has created a Web site to help you file a claim.

How did our job resources help you? Share your success story with us.