Libraries have become increasingly important to our communities’ social and economic well-being. The role of libraries in the contemporary climate is changing. They have become community resilience hubs, with crucial community and business resources. Although they are known for providing access to books, literature, media, and free Wi-Fi, libraries have much more to offer including access to food, gardening supplies, and neighborhood connection events. This article highlights the plethora of workforce development and business support tools that are available through libraries in Johnson County.
Starting with the people, we are fortunate to have some of the highest quality librarians, specializing in community services and business resources, right here in Johnson County. At the Iowa City Public Library (ICPL), Community Access & Services Coordinator Sam Helmick was recently appointed as the American Library Association’s 2024-2025 President-Elect. Kellee Forkenbrock, Public Services Librarian at the North Liberty Library (NLL), is a Certified Entrepreneurship Librarian with an interest in assisting businesses in any way she is capable. The Coralville Public Library (CPL) houses a Community Resource Navigator, Samira Abdalla, whose primary function is to help individuals & families gain access to resources in the community. Expanding far beyond Sam, Kellee, and Samira, our area’s public libraries have top-notch staff ready to assist our community, and our businesses, at any time.
Libraries are inviting and safe spaces that serve as centers of community resources, strengthening and empowering our local workforce. Not only can people find job postings, professional development opportunities, and continued learning resources – they can also access Wi-Fi, computers, printers, and more. The ICPL lets users check out and use a personal laptop within the library. The CPL offers the option to check out and take home a personal laptop, while also offering a selection of free English language classes. Library staff help individuals find local job postings, essential online learning tools for resume building, online job boards, and resources to complete an online job application. Individual support can be requested for those wanting basic assistance with writing a resume, cover letter, application, or similar requests. These resources are crucial in connecting and preparing potential workforce to contribute to our local businesses.
Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, extensive business development resources are also available throughout the ICPL, CPL, and NLL. Johnson County libraries offer access to many digital learning platforms and websites to help our business leaders stay informed. They offer online services such as access to newspaper articles (e.g., Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Washington Post, and more national & local papers) and business databases (e.g., Consumer Reports, Data Axle, plus others). These online resources also extend into professional development and continuous learning opportunities. Library visitors can gain access to LinkedIn Learning courses to sharpen professional and networking skills, LearningExpress Library practice tests for professional training, and books or study guides for professional certifications. All libraries are equipped with free meeting rooms (with minimal stipulations) to reserve a space to meet a client, a colleague, or use as a quiet space. As part of their Digital Media Lab, the ICPL offers one-on-one help with software training, including photoshop, video editing, and more. Once a year, NLL offers free and professional headshots. The public can find which day this is offered on their calendar. The CPL offers Coralville residents the option to check out and borrow mobile Wireless Hotspots, providing Wi-Fi access at any location for new business owners.
At Greater Iowa City, Inc., we are proud to collaborate with our local libraries, support their initiatives, and advocate for the use of their resources and services to our civic and business community. Libraries provide invaluable support to our community through their community resources, workforce support, and business development. To view a list of all library services, by the exact location throughout Johnson County libraries, visit their websites below, contact library staff, or visit in-person!
Johnson County Libraries:
- Iowa City Public Library: 123 South Linn Street, Iowa City, IA 52240
- Coralville Public Library: 1401 5th Street, Coralville, IA 52241
- Lone Tree Public Library: 303 Devoe St S, Lone Tree, IA 52755
- North Liberty Community Library: 520 West Cherry Street, North Liberty, IA 52317
- Oxford Public Library: 112 Augusta Avenue, Oxford, IA 52322
- Solon Public Library: 320 West Main Street, Solon, IA 52333
- Swisher Community Library: 72 2nd St SW, Swisher, IA 52338
- Tiffin – Springmier Community Library: 311 West Marengo Road, Tiffin, IA 52340