Grant Libraries and Final Reports
- Camas Public Library, 625 NE Fourth Ave, Camas, WA 98607
Title: New Horse Sense for Job Seekers
Abstract: The Camas Public Library will expand its commitment to citizens seeking new employment or careers by adding relevant employment-related materials to its collections, instructional program offerings and computer infrastructure. The library will place itself firmly in the forefront as the place to go for job resources in the community. Final report 
- Columbia County Rural Library District, PO Box 74, Dayton, WA 99328
Title: EJIC -- Education/Job Information Center
Abstract: Columbia County Rural Library District’s Education/Job Information Center has only twenty-five titles. The Renew Washington grant will make it possible to expand the library’s education/job information center collection to include topics on education, colleges, employment, careers, job skills, scholarships, grants, and to expand into a variety of formats. Final report
- Everett Public Library, 2702 Hoyt Ave, Everett, WA 98201.
Title: Relief for Everett: Increasing technology access and skills for today’s job market
Abstract: The Everett Public Library will: 1) purchase Resume Maker software; and 2) hire qualified sub-contractors to provide on-demand technological assistance in both library branches and provide a curriculum of basic technology courses designed to assist job seekers and career-changers, especially the technologically disadvantaged. Final report
- Fort Vancouver Regional Library District, 1007 E Mill Plain Blvd, Camas, WA 98663-3504
Title: Get Job Help @ Your Library!
Abstract: This project will provide expert help with preparing resumes and cover letters, and preparing for interviews. Classes will be held on job-hunting and how to use library employment resources. Patrons will have access to dedicated computers for job related activities such as job searching, applying for jobs online, or filing for unemployment benefits. Final report
- King County Library System, 960 Newport Way, Issaquah, WA 98027
Title: King County InfoBiz
Abstract: King County InfoBiz is an online resource center for struggling small business owners and entrepreneurs that will allow users to access streaming how-to videos, tutorials, and podcasts presented by local business experts. The project is a partnership between community agencies providing content, and KCLS filming, editing and organizing that content. Final report
- Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 22710 E Country Vista Drive, Liberty Lake, WA 99019
Title: Hard Times
Abstract: This project will provide free job hunting information, computer training, and career guidance through a variety of media and internet sources located centrally in a Career center and in specific programming. Final report
- Mount Vernon City Library, 315 Snoqualmie St, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Title: The Library—the Heart of the Community in Hard Times and All Times
Abstract: The library has always been open to those needing help in recessionary times. Today the story is no different. Mount Vernon has been hit hard in this current recession. The library will be part of the solution by providing information, training and resources people can use to better their lives. Final report
- Pierce County Library System, 3005 112th St E, Tacoma, WA 98446-2215
Title: Job Resource Skill Center project
Abstract: The project will offer one-stop shopping for Pierce County job seekers and small business entrepreneurs in five key libraries, making available a full range of support services including free resources, personal assistance, and the computer access needed to be successful in today's job market. Final report
- Port Townsend Public Library, 1220 Lawrence St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Title: Transition Yourself – Finding Your Work Path in Hard Times
Abstract: The grant will enable the library to serve job seekers through increased collections, trained staff, and a comprehensive program to guide the unemployed in dealing with the social, psychological and financial aspects of job loss and find new employment directions. Final report
- Puyallup Public Library, 324 S Meridian, Puyallup, WA 98371
Title: Real Resumes
Abstract: This project will provide a set of classes for job hunters who need assistance creating a resume for an effective job search. The project calls for additional equipment for the computer lab, purchase of flash drives for participants and use of paid staff and human resources professionals for instruction. Final report
- Seattle Public Library, 1000 Fourth Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Title: Workplace 911 at The Seattle Public Library
Abstract: This project will bring together a series of live and virtual services to address the needs of three groups of Library users: job seekers, workers worried about losing their job, and employers dealing with personnel issues related to the tough economic times. Final report
- Sno-Isle Libraries, 7312 35th Ave, Marysville, WA 98271
Title: Tools for Tough Times: We Have What You Need
Abstract: The grant will provide a package of resources and services to help job-seeking patrons through tough economic times by targeting skills building, resume writing, interview practice sessions, and job search strategies. Final report
- Spokane Public Library, 906 W Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
Title: Spokane Library Work Source Connection
Abstract: Spokane Public Library’s Downtown Branch will be designated a WorkSource Connection Site by WorkSource Spokane. The Computer Lab will be open 10 hours a week with a WorkSource trained employee available to assist job seekers. Books, videos and software recommended by WorkSource will be purchased for all branches. Final report
- Tacoma Public Library, 1102 Tacoma Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98402
Title: Creation of Employment Resource Center at the Tacoma Public Library Main Library
Abstract: This project will create a comprehensive employment resource center with state-of-the-art technology, books, periodicals, databases, and skill-building assistance. It will offer employment search educational opportunities and feature a speaker’s series of well-regarded experts in the field of career transition and placement. Final report
- Timberland Regional Library, 415 Tumwater Blvd SW, Tumwater, WA 98501
Title: Basic Training for Hard Times
Abstract:: This project will: 1) improve staff skills so they can lead patrons directly to needed resources and guide them in how to use those resources; 2) spotlight relevant collections by identifying and updating job, education, and business resources; and 3) make tools accessible by training staff on how to teach technology use and how to solve technology bottlenecks. Final report
- Whatcom County Library System, 5205 Northwest Drive, Bellingham, WA 98226
Title: Steps on the Path: Connecting Partners, Building Community / Pasos en el camino: Companeros conectados, Construyendo comunidad
Abstract: WCLS is taking a leadership role in working with local agencies to share resources and link staff and expertise for outreach to immigrant and minority populations. The goal is building connections via the library as hub to guide residents on the path to education, employment, and self sufficiency. Final report
- Whitman County Library, 102 S Main, Colfax, WA 99111
Title: Whitman County Library’s Occupation Resource Connections (WORC)
Abstract: WORC will provide a series of collaborative skill building instructional programs, comprehensive career guidance, and increased computer access to resources addressing our current employment crisis. Collaborative programs will address computer skill development, interview basics, resume and job application completion and career development. WORC will encourage self-empowerment and career objectives. Final report
Renew Washington grants (Academic Libraries) funded only by IMLS
- Eastern Washington University Libraries, 816 F Street, Cheney, WA 99004
Title: Project LAUNCH at Eastern Washington University Libraries
Abstract: Project LAUNCH is comprised of two activities: development and implementation of an interactive resource guide to provide “one-stop shopping” for career resources to be used by EWU graduating students and alumni; purchase and implementation of fifteen Web cameras for circulation to students to be used with the Web-based Interviewstream program to improve interview skills. Final report
- Skagit Valley College Library, 2405 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Title: Find a Career, Get a Job: Skagit Valley College Career & Employment Resources
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to offer our students and community members expanded career information through an online program and new print, media, and electronic materials in the library. These resources are intended to be used by and available through the library, counseling and career services, and college classes. Final report
- Spokane Community College Library, 1810 N. Greene St., MS 2150, Spokane, WA 99217
Title: Hard Times Call for Comprehensive Solutions
Abstract: Spokane Community College Library’s services must be enhanced to effectively serve the growing number of students and community members seeking job skills and employment information/services. To enhance these services the library will 1) add key career databases, 2) update and enhance its print and online career and job-seeking resources/materials, 3) offer job-seeking/career success workshops, 4) offer presentations about local job opportunities, 5) expand service in the certification testing/proctoring center and 6) offer resume-building software in our computer lab and on our check-out laptops. Final report
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New and continuing grant projects 2010-2011 (all funded through IMLS)
- Ellensburg Public Library (NEW 2010)
Title: Ready, Set, Jobs: Help is Available @ Your Library
Abstract: The Ellensburg Public Library will strengthen its position with businesses, local agencies and community members by implementing a library/community collaboration plan. This grant will maximize the library’s ability to provide quality services to agencies and individuals who need a helping hand during these difficult economic times.
- Everett Public Library (Continuing)
Title: Relief for Everett – Increasing Technology Access and Skills for Today’s Job Market
Abstract: The Everett Public Library will hire qualified sub-contractors to provide on-demand technological assistance in both of the library’s branches and provide a curriculum of basic technology courses designed to assist job seekers and career-changers, especially the technologically disadvantaged.
- Mount Vernon City Library (Continuing)
Title: The Library, Still the Heart of the Community
Abstract: The 2009 Renew Washington grant supported the Mount Vernon City Library in helping the public deal with an economic recovery that has NOT trickled down to “real people”. The 2010 grant will help the Library continue to provide information, training, and resources in areas such as job search, computer skills, job skills, living on a budget, and living in a sustainable way, as people and families deal with the loss of a job or other direct impacts of the recession.
- Odessa Public Library (NEW 2010)
Title: Reliable Access for the Future
Abstract: The Odessa Public Library will provide updated computers, software, and text material to assist its patrons in researching job training, communications with potential employers, access to electronic applications, and email capabilities to those who are most disadvantaged in the community.
- Pierce County Library System (Continuing)
Title: Job and Business Laptop Labs
Abstract: Pierce County Library will extend the resources and services of the Job and Business Center project to outlying areas of Pierce County by providing laptop labs, computer instruction classes, and specialized support services to the unemployed and the underemployed so they can be successful in today’s job market.
- Port Townsend Public Library (Continuing)
Title: Transition Yourself – Finding Your Work Path in Hard Times, Part 2
Abstract: The 2010 grant will build upon successes of the 2009 grant with ongoing support for staff training and collection development. Port Townsend Public Library will continue to provide job search/transition workshops and network groups with a focus on senior workers, teens, and innovative community interactions with businesses and employers.
- Seattle Public Library (Continuing)
Title: Online Job Help at SPL
Abstract: The Seattle Public Library will offer an interactive online service that will provide career and job seeking help for their patrons. The service will offer live online support as well as referrals to other sites for test-taking, resume building, skill development, and job information.
- Sedro-Woolley Public Library (NEW 2010)
Title: So You Want to Start a Business
Abstract: In order to benefit the community’s access to economic development, Sedro-Woolley Public Library will offer intensive support opportunities for people interested in starting and operating a small business within the community. The focus will be on enhanced collection development, mentoring, providing mini-workshops on small business topics, and serving as a clearinghouse for small businesses.
- Whatcom County Library System (Continuing)
Title: Continuing Steps on the Path
Abstract: This Renew Washington work extends and strengthens the first year’s effort via the Outreach Project Coordinator’s expertise and relationship building among the low income and minority populations. With branch libraries as hubs, the emphasis is community outreach focusing on computer skills, job search, and education leading to self sufficiency.
- Whitman County Library District (Continuing)
Title: Whitman County Library Occupations Resource Connections (WORC)
Abstract: The WORC program will provide countywide support services including individual assistance, skill building help sessions, and designated career resource computer centers to Whitman County residents. The objectives are to provide individuals with skills, resources and opportunities to help them become successful in this economic crisis.
Academic Libraries
- Central Washington University, James E. Brooks Library (NEW 2010)
Title: Stories for Learning, Laptops for Growing
Abstract: The James E. Brooks Library will provide CWU students and community members targeted/dedicated access to 15 laptop computers, books, electronic resources, and well trained staff to help them identify, apply for, and ultimately secure employment. While performing their employment search, their children will be engaged with story hour, First Book books donations, and early childhood literacy embedded learning kits, thus serving the whole family in a supportive environment with the primary goal of connecting employee with future employer.
- Spokane Community College Library (Continuing)
Title: Jobs, Jobs, Jobs…Renew Washington, Part 2
Abstract: Building on its 2009–2010 Renew Washington program, the SCC Library will enhance its
Business/entrepreneurship and “survive and thrive” resources. Collaborating with SCC’s Avista Center for Entrepreneurship, the library will host speakers and workshops, highlighting resources to help patrons survive in hard times and understand business in order to start their own.
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- Camas Public Library will produce and distribute to community leaders a brochure and postcard of the services and the value of the library as well as train frontline staff on how to communicate the value of the library. Final report
- Columbia County Rural Library District will produce a booklet showing the library district has "something" for everyone and how library services improve the community. Final report
- Everett Public Library will create a printed takeaway piece on the value of the library’s services and distribute to community decision-makers and stakeholders. Final report
- In preparation for a levy lid lift election, Fort Vancouver Regional Library will produce and install vinyl warps with "We really deliver on life-long learning" on two mobile delivery vans that travel 800 miles per week. Final report
- Mount Vernon City Library will develop a one-page flyer/ bookmark on the value of the library and distribute to key officials and stakeholders, follow it up with a survey, and hold a reception for officials and stakeholders. Final report
- Pierce County Library will place paid ads in Chamber of Commerce newsletters to reach community opinion makers and place online ads on selected sites to reach small business owners and entrepaneurs. Final report
- Port Townsend Public Library will redesign and upgrade the library’s website, expand its email contacts, and present the new website to city officials and department heads, school officials, and local community organizations. Final report
- Puyallup Public Library will develop a piece on the value of the library and distribute it in utility bills, conduct a library card drive in city departments, and follow up with a survey to determine future strategies for the library. Final report
- Seattle Public Library will translate patron surveys into four languages and will place ads in ethnic newspapers to encourage the participation of Seattle’s many ethnic communities in developing the library’s strategic plan. Final report
- Sno-Isle Libraries will produce nine short videos showing how eResources have changed lives of local people and use them in presentations to library stakeholders. Final report
- Timberland Regional Library will create and distribute to patrons and key influencers a Passport which provides information about all libraries in the system in an effort to create a better understanding of the value, the cost savings, and the conveniences of the district library concept. Final report
- Whatcom County Library will train staff to better communicate the value of the library to the public, translate a library brochure into Spanish, purchase and use a laptop to demonstrate library resources for city councils and other local officials, plus develop a card/brochure/poster/radio ad that shows the library’s value. Final report
- Whitman County Library will re-design its Whitman Occupation Resource Connections (WORC) webpage as well as other sites with key messages to show the value of the library and will host a grand opening/demonstration of the site for key decision-makers, partners, and media in the library. Final report
- Liberty Lake Municipal Library, King County Library System, Spokane Public Library, and Tacoma Public Library did not submit grant requests. They explained that they either couldn’t conduct activities within the timeline, their activities didn’t fit within the guidelines, or they were incorporating communication activities into their own workplan and budget.
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Funded in part by the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).