In an effort to better reach those seeking employment or navigating career transitions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Berks County Public Libraries will take to the road later this month with the launch of their Mobile Job Lab, bringing free workforce resources and instruction to community centers throughout Berks County.
The Mobile Job Lab will make its first visit at Zion’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Shoemakersville on November 18, 2020.
“As the world has shifted and become more digital, the role of public libraries has evolved,” said Alison Trautmann, outreach services coordinator for Berks County Public Libraries. “Technology has become an integral component in finding employment, and as champions of equitable service, we’re here to make sure those resources are readily available to everyone.”
The Mobile Job Lab will focus on bringing library job resources to county residents who may be unable to visit their local library in person. Several computer stations, wireless Internet connection, and a printer will be available to users at each of the Mobile Job Lab pop-up locations.
Berks County Public Libraries is partnering with the Workforce Development Board of Berks County to offer on-site instruction to interested users, helping job seekers navigate the current job market and offering guidance on available job preparation tools.
“Public libraries strive to close the digital divide that exists within communities,” said Trautmann. “For some, computers, printers, and high-speed Internet are common items that are often taken for granted, while for others, the lack of access to these resources put them at a disadvantage when trying to re-enter the job market.”
Persons interested in utilizing Mobile Job Lab resources should register online at www.berkslibraries.org/mobile-job-lab or contact Alison Trautmann at 610-378-5260 ext. 2502.
Organization with a large indoor space interested in hosting the Mobile Job Lab are encouraged to contact Alison Trautmann.
The Mobile Job Lab will be taking precautions to ensure the safety of users and personnel including social distancing, requiring face masks, and temperature screenings.
The Mobile Job Lab is presented by Berks County Public Libraries in partnership with the Friends of Berks County Public Libraries. Funds to support this project have been generously provided by the Hawley and Myrtle Quier Fund of Berks County Community Foundation.
# # #
Emily Orischak,
Community Relations Coordinator, Berks County Public Libraries