Cut back, downsized, laid off?

Even if you are one of the fortunate ones, an American who still has a job, you probably know someone who was laid off or permanently let go by their employer. Such an experience can be depressing, scary, even paralyzing - so the staff here at the Des Plaines Public Library wants to do everything possible to help. Check out our March Events calendar for a full slate of programs to help you get your career back on track.

First of all, we've got computer classes, for free, all year long. Never used a computer before? Sign up for Basic Computer Skills and Computer Practice & Playtime - pretty soon you'll be an experienced pro. Have pretty good mouse and keyboard skills, but unclear on how to use the Internet and World Wide Web? Try our Basic and Intermediate Internet classes. Need personalized help with a problem regarding a Web site or email? Stop into one of our Drop-In Email and Internet sessions. We also offer specialized classes in topics like blogging, photo editing on the computer and services like eBay. Visit our Computer Classes page to get all the details, including information on registering.

We offer free, private career counseling every month, too. This month's session is on Thursday, March 19, but check back every month for more dates. This free service offers expert advice on interviewing, networking, writing up a resumé and more. For more information or to check on the availability of sessions, call the Registration Desk, 847-376-2787.

Speaking of resumés, does yours need a facelift? Never written one before? Either way, you don't want to miss "Help, I Need a Resumé!" on Tuesday, March 24 beginning at 2 PM. You will not only get a professional presentation on what belongs in a resumé and how to organize it, but stick around and you'll get personal help in typing up your own resumé using Microsoft Word. Register here - space is limited.

Finally, do you dream of a career as a published author? Sign up for our free program, "The Secrets to Getting Published," featuring author Marcus Sakey. The program takes place on Wednesday, March 18, at 7 PM, and is part of the "Inside Writing & Publishing Series," cosponsored with participating North Suburban Library System libraries. Find out more about Marcus Sakey at his Web site.

Revitalize your career, make yourself an invaluable addition to a new employer, or take your job search into an entirely new direction - the choice is yours, but we're here to help.