In this two hour class, we will introduce beginners in computer use to the skills they will need to seek a job in today’s environment: how to type a resume; how to set up an email account; how to search for job openings online; and how to fill out a form and upload a resume online.

You must register using the link above or by calling (269) 329-4544 and asking for the Adult Information Desk. Registration starts March 1st, 2010.

If this sounds highly improbable to you, even in the 21st century, consider how many institutions have all or part of their application process online—most retail establishments, many service industries, everywhere that comes through places like Monster or Michigan Jobs. In each of those cases, everything that you submit, from the online application to your resume as a Word attachment, is machine readable. Recently a counselor from Michigan Works recounted a story of 1200 applications being submitted for 10 openings at one firm. How many of you think that the companies that you are applying to have the personnel to read all of those things carefully?

So where does that leave you? It means that you have to pay EVEN CLOSER attention to the language that is in the job description. If you see lots of descriptions for a particular type of position in which the same sets of terms and phrases keep coming up, you should include those words and phrases in your cover letter, in your application descriptions of your qualities and experience and training from your past jobs, and in your resume. An example that I give in classes that I teach is the aubergine. It is the name Britons use for that deep purple vegetable that is often prepared à la Parmigiana and which Americans call eggplant.

However, the computer may not know this. They may have a position called “aubergine chef” and pass the application that says “eggplant cook” right on by. The computer is programmed to look for “aubergine” and “chef” and to pass on applications that have a number of matches. This does not mean that you are to copy every single word verbatim from the description. That may make HAL happy enough to forward it to the hiring person, who will be disgusted at your lack of creativity. Your task is to artfully scatter enough of the relevant terms through your resume, cover letter, and application, while mixing it with your own verbiage, to make the uninformed machine and the clued-in hiring manager both convinced that you are perfect for the job.

_Checkout Desk activitie_s – All patron transactions – such as membership registration, fine payment, reserve pickup and checkouts – will be temporarily relocated to the Atrium in an area immediately to the left of the front entrance ramp.

Return of Materials – During the project, returns may be deposited into a receptacle adjacent to the front lobby or may continue to be deposited into our external material return slots on the south side of the library building.

Self-Checkout Stations – There will be (2) self-checkout stations operational with debit/credit payment options to pay overdue fines. One station will be located in the Atrium and one station will be in the lower level. This should help minimize the possibility of service delays at the temporary Checkout Desk in the Atrium.

Book Donations – The Friends of the Portage District Library will continue to accept book donations during the library’s Circulation Redesign Project. However, donations will be collected in an alternate location at the Adult Information Desk. We ask that you please call ahead if you wish to make a sizable book donation as space will be limited during this project.

Please watch the library’s website, digital signage and posters throughout the library for project updates, and THANK YOU in advance for your understanding regarding any disruptions or delays that you may experience because of this project.

Stay Connected – Capturing Memories Through Writing, Reading and Framing Personal Stories
Thursday, February 11, 2:00 pm & 6:30 pm

This program provides suggestions for children’s books new and old that make great read-togethers; how to use blogging sites to journal and or self-publish your own kids’ stories and artwork; and how to create a collection of books that help you preserve and pass on your stories. We will also show you how to frame military medals, family heirlooms, and unique vacation memories using conservation materials.

Featuring: Bookbug; Kazoo Books; and PJ’s Frame-Up

Stay Full – Know your Local Eateries and their Specialties
Thursday, February 25, 2:00 pm & 6:30 pm

Stimulate your taste buds by coming to the Portage Library event co-sponsored with Buy Local Kalamazoo’s local restaurants. Kalamazoo has its our own unique flavors, menus, and events. Join us for a panel discussion about our local specialties and have an opportunity to meet the owners and/or chefs of these wonderful eating establishments.

Featuring: Pasta Pasta; Mangia Mangia; Ample Pantry; and Sarkozy Bakery

Location: Portage District Library

Free / No Registration required
For more information Call: 269-329-4542

Held at the Portage District Library, the book sale is always in the lower level meeting rooms. If you are a member of the Friends, you are also eligible to attend an Early Bird sale on Friday, February 5th, from 4 pm to 5:30 pm.

In 1969 the Shigaraki Fine Arts Society for Children was established. The area is a famous center for the production of pottery in Japan and for its “earthenware studies” program for elementary students through teens.

On Saturday, February 20th, from 2:00-4:00pm Japanese students and staff of the Soga Japan Center will offer demonstrations of calligraphy, origami, and storytelling. There will be music by students of the Suzuki Academy of Kalamazoo and samples of Japanese food.

This is the kickoff for Reading Together 2010, a series of community discussions, lectures, exhibits and demonstrations featuring the novel Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson. Mr. Guterson will be visiting Kalamazoo on March 17th.