The City of Cape Town’s libraries are linking young people, especially those in matric, to career possibilities and opportunities. Many libraries offer expos, career sessions, unemployment workshops and networking opportunities.
City libraries are rich resources of information on careers available to learners, matriculants, or even those who are looking for a change of pace.
‘Our libraries offer more than just books and other materials about the myriad career options available. We provide career exhibitions, outline the best way to job-hunt, and host workshops on CV preparation. For example, later this month there is a youth unemployment workshop at the Parow Library as well as youth networking events at the Tafelsig and Weltevreden Libraries. While these may seem like simple steps, they lead to greater possibilities,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith.
Two libraries recently hosted successful career-focused events. A career expo at the Bellville South Library last week drew 24 exhibitors and more than 524 attendees, while those who attended a work-seekers skills workshop at the Wesfleur Library learned how to compile a successful CV.
‘One of the main motivators for these interventions is the high unemployment rate among young people. These events make it easier for them to access the information they need in order to gain skills and find a job. We want to make it easier to find employment, in line with our Organisational Development and Transformation Plan goal to provide access to economic opportunities for all of our residents. With the library events, you can gain insight into possible careers and identify the skills needed to become successful in your chosen profession,’ said Alderman Smith.
At the youth unemployment workshop at the Parow Library on 20 September 2017, young people will be taught job-hunting skills. A youth engagement and networking workshop at the Weltevreden Library on 21 September 2017 will focus on how to apply to tertiary institutions, the courses on offer, and the subject requirements.
A teen career information session will take place at the Scottsdene Library on 22 September 2017 focusing on using SmartCape computers to apply for positions online, choosing a career, and applying for financial aid, including the documents required. Also on 22 September, a youth networking event at Tafelsig Library will cover CV preparation.
‘Many young people are not only unaware of the employment opportunities available, but also don’t know how to access those opportunities. Libraries provide a wealth of information on how you can make the connections and find the path to a career, enabling you to become an economically productive member of society.
‘I urge young people to make use of these opportunities and learn as much as possible from their local library. The world is our oyster and the library is the door that leads to it,’ said Alderman Smith.