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Job Help at Austin Public Library

Job Help

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Get job help at the Austin Public Library. To help our community, we offer several job resources, including resources to help you:

  • Write a cover letter and a resume

  • Search for a Job

  • Prepare for an interview

Get an Email Address

Get an Email Address

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 email address that includes your name or initials. 

Try different combinations of your name until you find one that works. 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. Add a "recovery" email address or phone number to your account in case you forget your password.

This is a second email address or phone number where you can receive a special code if you ever forget your password. If you do not 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.

Most email providers have an app you can download to your smartphone. Most phones also include an "Email app" you can connect your account to.

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Create Your Resumé

Create Your Resumé


For more help, check out Capital Area Workforce Solutions' Resume Building video.

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 a clear font to make your resume easy to read.

Resume Don'ts

  • Avoid saying "References Upon Request," but do include references if there is room.
  • Do not include your Social Security number, birth date, or other private information.

Creating Your Resume

  • Brainfuse JobNow Free customizable, career-specific cover letter templates. Get help from an expert from 2-11 p.m. Central or submit your resume any time through the Resume Lab to receive detailed feedback in 24 hours. A valid Library card and password are required to access from home.
  • Google Docs Templates Offers free resume templates that are automatically saved and always available online. 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.
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Write Your Cover Letter

Write Your Cover Letter

Not every job 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

  • Brainfuse JobNow Free customizable, career-specific cover letter templates. Get help from an expert from 2-11 p.m. Central or submit your cover letter any time through the Resume Lab to receive detailed feedback in 24 hours. A valid Library card and password are required to access from home.
  • Google Docs Easy-to-use cover letter templates you can create and access from any device with a Google account (required). Create a free Google account.
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Search for Jobs

Search for Jobs

Local Job Search Help

Search Local Jobs

Search National Jobs

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Prepare for Interviews

Prepare for Interviews

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
  • LearnFree - Interviewing Skills. Useful tips and strategies to prepare for, conduct, and follow up after a professional job interview.
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Explore Careers

Explore Careers

Vision Impairment

Assistive Technology available at the Library – Learn about accessibility options available at the Library and with eBooks, eAudiobooks, research databases, and physical materials.

Features in Windows 10 and 11

  • Windows Magnifier to magnify the screen in any program:
    • To launch Windows Magnifier: Windows Logo Key + Plus Sign (+)
    • To increase the zoom/magnification: Windows Logo Key + Plus Sign (+)
    • To decrease the zoom/magnification: Windows Logo Key + Minus Sign (-)
    • To turn off Windows Magnifier: Windows Logo Key + ESC
  • High Contrast – to turn on, use the left side of the keyboard and press Shift + Alt + Fn + Print Screen. Use the same keys to turn it off.
  • Windows Narrator to read text on the screen in any program:
    • To launch Windows Narrator: Windows Logo Key + Ctrl + Enter
    • Move to the next item: Caps Lock + Right Arrow
    • Move to the previous item: Caps Lock + Left Arrow
    • To view all shortcut keys: Caps Lock + F1
    • To exit Windows Narrator: Caps Lock + ESC

Features to use in Chrome Browser

Language Access

Biblioteca Pública de Austin
Google Translate

Use Google Translate on an entire webpage

  • To launch Google Translate extension: Right-click on the mouse and select "Translate to ..." from the pop-up menu. Then select the preferred language and select Done.

Mobility Aids

Dexterity and mobility features in Windows 10. Note these features can be found under Settings > Accessibility in Windows 11.

  • On-Screen Keyboard to use a visual keyboard that can be selected using the mouse or a single key.
    • To launch the On-Screen Keyboard: Select Start, then Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard. Then switch the On-Screen Keyboard toggle to the on position.
  • Mouse Keys to use the numeric keypad to move the mouse pointer.
    • To launch Mouse Keys: Select Start, then Settings > Ease of Access > Mouse. Then switch the Mouse Keys toggle to the on position.
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Explore Skills & Training

Explore Skills & Training

Skill & Training Resources

  • Learning Express Library Valid Library card and password required to access from home. Nearly 1,000 online tutorials, practice tests, and eBooks. Job search training and workplace skills improvement.
  • ConnectCTX Job training and education opportunities across Austin.
  • LearnFree Helpful computer tutorials covering several introductory topics.
  • Workforce Solutions Events Local events calendar with virtual training sessions to help you job search.
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Explore Resources for Diverse Populations

Explore Resources for Diverse Populations

Expand a section below for more information.

Teens

Teens

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 and volunteering can help greatly.
  3. Be able to name your skills - you have more skills than you might realize.
  4. Get your documents together to apply - helps your application go smoothly.
  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. 

 

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People of All Abilities

People of All Abilities

Resources for Workers of All Abilities

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Formerly Incarcerated People

Formerly Incarcerated People

Reentry Resources

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Get Job Help

Get Job Help

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.

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