The role of libraries in community economic development is evolving beyond jobseeker support to more formal engagement with workforce development systems. Washington libraries are engaged with community partners at the state and local level in projects and activities that are truly moving the bar for jobseekers and business, allowing them to make real, impactful contributions in their communities. In this session you’ll learn about the structure of the workforce development system, which government and community organizations share common audiences and goals – and are likely to welcome libraries as partners, and gain insight into specific areas where the ‘traditional’ workforce development system struggles, but where libraries excel.
Some of the programs we’ll highlight include adult high school completion (degree and GED) partnerships and initiatives, certification test proctoring, workshops for budding apprentices and entrepreneurs and small business, libraries certified in the American Job Center network, and a very successful community business library. Throughout the program we’ll be taking a thoughtful look at the many ways to approach community partnerships, and ways to make our workforce development activities more equitable, diverse, and inclusive.
Attendees will gain a better understanding of the structure of the workforce development system – federal, state, and local. Attendees will leave with at least 2 ideas for how they can leverage their library’s current goals or services to engage in their workforce development system. Attendees will gain new insight into the partnership spectrum and incorporating principles of equitability, diversity, and inclusion.
