Library launches new serivce to help people through tough times
Sue Grace, assistant director for customer services and Councillor Heather Smith launching a job networking event at Northampton Central Library.
LIBRARIES in Northamptonshire are being promoted as the place to help people through “tough times” with new zones created featuring a collection of self-help books.
Northamptonshire County Council held an official launch event at the Central Library in Abington Street, Northampton, on Friday for the new library Change! zones, which bring together a collection of titles covering topics such as job seeking, skills improvement, volunteering, financial advice and confidence building.
All libraries also offer free internet access on Fridays and return to work sessions offering CV tips.
Job club groups are also held at the Central Library.
Councillor Heather Smith (Con, Prebendal), cabinet member for customer services, said: “For people who are unemployed and don’t know what to do we encourage them to come to the library and speak to people trained to give advice.
“So many people don’t know what their library can offer apart from a book borrowing service.
“Libraries have a vital role in helping people during these tough times and we have developed various initiatives to support people in lots of different ways, such as finding a job, building self-confidence or starting a business.
“We are constantly looking for ways to develop and expand these services and want to work with other local organisations to see what they can offer and how we work together.”
Barbara Leigh, principal librarian at the Central Library, added: “I think it is an absolutely fantastic way to help people. I think it is a good idea to put together a collection of books that can help build confidence.”
Library user Patrick Shanahan, age 52, of Spring Boroughs, said: “I think there is a wonderful range of books. The staff are always really friendly and helpful.”
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HOS
Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 12:40 PMI think pamphlets are a brilliant idea when you are facing homelessness. I suppose if they gave enough pamphlets out people could burn them to keep warm when they are forced to live in a tent?
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Monday, October 24, 2011 at 12:15 AMLibrary launches new serivce to help people through tough times .
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Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 10:33 PMWhat is a "serivce" is this from a student in gernalism from the university of Croby, or even worse Northampton University (we will let anyone if you have the dosh to pay our unemployable letchurers wages) http:www.northamptonchron.co.ukcommunitylocal-informationlibrary_launches_new_serivce_to_help_people_through_tough_times_1_3178189
forgetnot
Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 01:06 PMA Tory councillor with the appropriate tool, scissors to cut, wont be long before its the shredder!
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Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 11:33 AMThey will also need settees where they can snuggle up. Trust me I've seen them. Air freshensr will be required though.
lady muck
Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 10:46 AMThe grand plan is revealed...combine the JobCentre, Library and Benefits Office.
willi eckaslyke
Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 10:11 AMLibraries have been helping people through tough times for years...it's important that these new zones are well-heated
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