[Resources updated July 1, 2026]
Looking for a new job, or thinking about a career change, can be both exciting and terrifying. About three and a half years ago, I was in the middle of deciding if I should change careers and go back to school to become a librarian. Once the decision was made and school was underway, it was time to get back into the job hunt. I’m thrilled that my decision was the right one for me; however, that doesn’t mean it wasn’t overwhelming to get started or a struggle to continue through the setbacks that are bound to come up during the process. There are so many factors to consider, and it can involve huge leaps of faith and financial concerns. That’s even more true if your reentry into job seeking isn’t a question of choice but is instead due to something unexpected — like a pandemic.
We’re here to support you with resources and programs to let you know that you’re not alone. On alternating Fridays (check the event calendar for specific session information), the library and the Professional Service Group of Mercer County (PSG) present a morning session for job seekers that provides information and strategies, welcomes questions and offers you a chance to network with other job seekers. The PSG website also offers job boards, archived training sessions, and other opportunities to network.
With your library card, you also have access to our wide range of databases and services, and we’ve gathered them together in our Job Skills and Careers guide. Whether this is your first job search, or just your first in a while, here are some places to start:
Peterson’s Test and Career Prep lets you explore and prepare for a variety of careers and offers test preparation resources for a large number of standardized tests. You’ll also find tools to build resumes, cover letters, and more.
Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center is a great tool for exploring career paths and discovering jobs that suit your criteria. You’ll also find tools for strengthening your job search skills as well as resources for those pursuing further education.
Tutor.com, a service of The Princeton Review, offers tools and tips for self-assessment, writing resumes and cover letters, and preparing for the interview. Its best feature is the live chat- or voice-based assistance on a variety of job and career skills, including resumes, interview prep, career assessment, and even unemployment benefits. Additionally, you can submit a draft of your resume and receive expert feedback.
Visit our Job Skills and Careers guide for more information on these and other resources that are available for you to use right now, including a guide for those considering starting a business. Develop new tech skills through LinkedIn Learning and keep on top of industry trends with Business Source Complete or through our digital magazine and newspaper collections. Use the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook to research salary information, then use Reference Solutions to research companies in your desired industry. Join us for a virtual program and network with other job seekers. Use these resources to take it one step at a time.
It’s become almost a cliche to talk about “these uncertain times,” but we know that it can feel that way any time you are looking for employment. You can be certain that we’ll continue to provide the best help we can to ensure that you have the tools you need to move forward confidently.
Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash