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Job Help

Job Help

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Get job help at Austin Public Library. In keeping with our commitment to Austin’s workforce and economic development, we offer resources below for career & occupation research, cover letters & resumes, job searches, and interview preparation.

Get an Email Address

Get an Email Address link

Almost all job applications require an email address, so this should be the first step in your job search if you don't have one.

Step 1: Pick a free email provider

Select from one of these popular email providers, or the provider of your choice. 

New to email? We recommend this Intro to Email course from DigitalLearn.org (14 minutes).

Step 2: Decide on an Email Address

Choose a professional-looking email address that includes your name or initials. 

Try different combinations of your name until you find one that works, but avoid including any personal information like your birth year. You may find that many other people have the same name as you, so get creative when selecting an email address. 

  • JoeASmith@email.com
  • JoeSmith78705@email.com
  • JoeSmithAustin@email.com

Step 3: Secure Your Account

Make sure your account is secure and you don't get "locked out" if you forget your password, by adding a "recovery" email address or phone number to your account. 

This is a second email address or a phone number, that they can send a special code to if you ever forget your password. If you don't have a second email address, consider setting up another one now.

Step 4: Check Your New Email Account Regularly

You'll want to check your email often in case there's news about a job.

If you have a cell phone, you can usually find an app for your phone from your email provider, or use the Email App that comes with your phone to link up the new email address you just created. 

Create Your Resumé

Create Your Resumé link


Capital Area Workforce Solutions has a more complete video on resume building.

What to Include in a Resume

  • Summary at the top of the resume that includes your strengths and experience
  • Job history, including volunteer activities
  • Educational history and additional training
  • Organizations and memberships relevant to the job
  • Contact information (name, phone, email) at the top

Resume Do's

  • Use keywords from the job posting and tailor your resume to suit each application.
  • Be truthful. State your abilities accurately.
  • Keep it brief. Try to limit your resume to one page, two pages at most.
  • Be accurate. Proofread your resume for any errors. 
  • Keep it up-to-date and professional. Make changes as they occur, and stick to plain-looking fonts to keep your resume timeless.

Resume Don'ts

  • Avoid saying "References Upon Request", but do include references if there is room.
  • Do not include Social Security #, birth date, marital status.

Creating Your Resume

  • Brainfuse JobNow
    Valid Library card and password required for remote access.
    Free customizable, career-specific resume templates and resume resources. Get help from a resume expert from 2-11 PM Central, or submit your resume any time through the Resume Lab and receive detailed feedback in 24 hours.
  • Google Docs Templates
    Offers free resume templates that are automatically saved and always available online - no need to save to USB. Requires a free Google account.
  • resume.com
    The free, user-friendly resume builder allows you to print and download your resume as a PDF or .doc file.

Write Your Cover Letter

Write Your Cover Letter link

Not every job posting requires a formal cover letter, but these tips can also be useful when writing an email to a potential employer.

  • Use keywords from the job posting in your letter, but don't repeat information included in your resume.
  • Explain how your skills and personal qualities match the employer's needs.
  • Focus on what you can do for the employer and how you will contribute to the organization's goals.

Creating a Cover Letter

Search for Jobs

Prepare for Interviews

Prepare for Interviews link

Interview prep resources:

  • Brainfuse JobNow
    Valid Library card and password required for remote access. 
    Brush up on interview techniques or get live online interview practice from trained job coaches.
  • CareerOneStop
    Interview resources and tips including interview types, common questions and salary negotiation 
  • GCFLearnFree - Interviewing Skills. Useful tips and strategies to prepare for, conduct and follow up after a professional job interview.

Explore Careers

Explore Careers link

Career Outlook and Guidance 

Certificates and Licenses

American Youthworks Capital Idea

Explore Skills & Training

Explore Skills & Training link

Skill & Training Resources

  • Learning Express Library
    Valid Library card and password required for remote access. 
    Nearly 1,000 online tutorials, practice tests and eBooks, as well as job search training and workplace skills improvement.
  • ConnectATX
    Job training and education opportunities across Austin.
  • GCFLearnFree 
    A range of helpful computer tutorials covering a number of introductory topics. 
  • SkillMill by Interplay Learning
    Online training for skilled trades including HVAC, solar, plumbing, electrical and more.
  • Workforce Solutions Events
    Local events calendar highlighting virtual training sessions on a variety of topics for job-seekers.

 

Explore Resources for Diverse Populations

Explore Resources for Diverse Populations link

Expand a section below for more information.

Teens

Teens link

How to land a job as a teen

  1. Brainstorm and research job options - don't limit yourself to "teen" jobs like fast food.
  2. Gain experience (and a reference) - small jobs & volunteering pay off, big time. 
  3. Be able to name your skills - you've got marketable skills (we promise).
  4. Get your documents together to apply - your application will be a breeze.
  5. Know how to ace your interview - interviews are the final exam (not a pop quiz).

Teen Job Opportunities

Explore some of our favorite employment opportunities just for teens. 

  • Apprenticeship.gov
    Want to gain a trade? Find apprenticeship opportunities in the Austin-area for skills like electrician, plumber and masonry. 
  • Caminos at the MACC
    The Caminos is a 1-year paid youth leadership program at the Mexican American Cultural Center.
  • City of Austin Summer Interns 
    One application for 4 different internships, and you're matched based on your future career interests. Application deadline is usually first week in March. 
  • City of Austin Youth Employment & Volunteer Opportunities
    See all youth volunteer and employment programs citywide at a glance - some are volunteer, but those at Austin Public Health and the Parks & Rec Department are paying jobs.
  • e4 Youth
    The e4 Youth Organization has several different paid jobs for Teens, including their Creative Mentor and Shadow the Pros programs.
  • Goodwill 
    Eligible applicants can receive one-on-one assistance from a case manager to reach educational and career goals. 
  • Travis County Summer Youth Employment Program 
    Eligible applicants can apply to this paid work-based learning opportunity. 

 

Older Adults

Older Adults link

Resources for Older Adults

People of All Abilities

People of All Abilities link

Resources for Workers of All Abilities

Formerly Incarcerated People

Formerly Incarcerated People link

Reentry Resources

Get Job Help

Get Job Help link

Librarians are available by phone, email, video call or in person. We can help you:

  • Set up an email address
  • Use Library and web resources for your job search
  • Troubleshoot online applications
  • Navigate a career transition
  • Offer tools and resources for resumes, cover letters, and interviews

Book a Librarian Appointments can also be made by calling the reference line at 512-974-7400, option 1.