First published in the Aug. 13 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
Job Connect at Burbank Public Library is Burbank’s one-stop shop with services for job seekers.
Individuals can visit any Burbank Public Library location to use a public computer to search and apply for jobs; browse job listings; register with the state job listing site, CalJOBS; get assistance with the job search process; or find online and print resources to enhance your skills and your career.
Most services are self-service and available at all three Burbank libraries during open hours or online 24/7. For those who prefer assistance, library staff will provide one-on-one assistance in-person or virtually.
Job Connect is an affiliate of the Verdugo Jobs Center in Glendale. Through Job Connect, staff will connect individuals with a wide range of specialized training and assistance programs targeted at groups like veterans, individuals with disabilities and those seeking retraining for fields with growing employment. A Verdugo Jobs Center caseworker is onsite regularly at the Central Library for individual appointments, meaning job seekers do not have to travel to Glendale for services that previously required a trip.
Job Connect also offers one-on-one support for entrepreneurs in partnership with SCORE, a national network of volunteer business mentors, in partnership with the city of Burbank Economic Development Department. These appointments are available in person or virtually. For more information or to register for any one-on-one services, visit burbanklibrary.org/jobconnect.
Through funding from the California State Library, Burbank Public Library also offers access to several online resources aimed at job seekers. These include LinkedIn Learning and Coursera, widely used for developing workforce skills. Additionally, LearningExpress Library provides aptitude tests and practice civil service exams. JobNow includes live online assistance for practice interviews or resume review. Skillshare and GetSetUp provide video-based online learning, and Northstar Digital Literacy will help with basic computer skills.
All of the online learning resources are available with a free Burbank eCard. Apply online at burbanklibrary.org for instant access. A Library card is not required for one-on-one appointments or public computer use.
The library also offers in-person, hands-on workshops in various job and technology skills. For those interested in the media industry, the Spark! Digital Media Lab at the Central Library provides access to software and equipment in areas from video and sound production to animation to 3D printing. Information is available on the library website.
— Elizabeth Goldman, Burbank Public Library
