Job Seekers Invited to Library Tuesday for 'Dress for Success'

This article was written by County News Center.

If you’re a job seeker in this still-recovering economy, the Imperial Beach branch of the San Diego County Library can help you with resume assistance, interview techniques and even free business attire to wear to your interviews.

The library and the South County Career Center (SCCC) are hosting Dress for Success on Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This is our first time holding this event,” said Jose Robles, assistant branch manager. “On several occasions customers have talked to us about finding a place where they can get clothes for interviews.”

Robles said the idea for Dress for Success came from another annual library event.

“Some of the other library branches have hosted prom dress giveaways,” he said. “We felt it would be in the best interest of our community to host a similar event, but with professional clothes to support people looking for employment.”

As of April, 2013, the unemployment rate in Imperial Beach was 11.3 percent, much higher than the rate of 7 percent for San Diego County overall, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Donations of gently-used professional clothing such as suits, dress shirts, skirts, ties, shoes, etc. are being accepted for the event at the library located at 810 Imperial Beach Blvd. Employee donation drives are also being held at 15 Wells Fargo locations, the Imperial Beach and San Ysidro Health Centers and City of Imperial Beach.

“Community members have been a tremendous source of support for this event,” said Robles. “They see the need and are willing to help by providing clothes donations.”

You do not need to be a resident of Imperial Beach or have a library card to participate in the event.

“We will encourage new customers to open a library account though so they have access to the many resources we offer than will help them in their job hunting,” said Robles.

Job seekers will be able to receive one free outfit while supplies last and have their resume reviewed by SCCC career specialists. Services will be available in both English and Spanish. Movies and activities will be provided for children that are attending with their parents.

For more information, visit www.sdcl.org or contact the branch at 619-424-6981.