Computer and Career Center Frequently Asked Questions

I recently lost my job.  Can I file for New York State unemployment benefits online?

Yes.  The New York State Department of Labor website allows you to file a claim online.  A Social Security Number, PIN (filer creates), and recent employment information are all necessary.

What are some of the best job search websites?

Please see the links on our Computer and Career Center webpage.

Does the library offer free career counseling?

Yes.  The career counselor is available on Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  An appointment can be made over the phone (516) 379-3274 ext, 504 or in person with the Computer and Career Center.

Where can I find books about writing resumes & cover letters and job interview skills?

A wide variety of job search books can be found in our Vocational collection.  Please ask at the ASK Desk or at the Computer and Career Center if you need assistance.

Where can I find information about different careers and what career is right for me?

You can find job descriptions, education requirements, salary information, etc. for a large range of career choices with the following websites, or our Career and Exam Preparation databases:

• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• RileyGuide.com
• JobHuntersBible.com

Does the library have information about and study guides for Civil Service Exams?

The library has current civil service announcements from New York State, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and the Town of Hempstead.  You can also access civil service announcements and applications online:

• Nassau County Civil Service Commission
• New York City Civil Service Commission
• New York State Department of Civil Service
• Suffolk County Civil Service

The Library also has study guides for the most popular civil service exams.  Some may be taken out with a Library card and others are reference copies and may be used within the Library only.

I need to update my computer skills.  What classes does the Library offer?

The Library offers computer classes in English and Spanish.  Please see the Computer Corner section of the Library's newsletter for current classes being offered.  In addition, the Library also subscribes to Learnatest, which offers computer instruction for various popular programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Powerpoint.  We also lend a wide variety of computer books for these applications as well as additional programs and operating systems.

Does the Library offer classes on job searching using the Internet?

Freeport Librarians have offered this class in both English and Spanish.  We will consider offering the classes again if enough interest is shown by patrons.  Please inquire and leave contact information in the Computer and Career Center.

Where can I find jobs in Freeport?

The Computer and Career Center staff compiles Freeport First, a printed lsit of jobs being offered by Freeport and other local employers.  Freeport employers have partnered with the Library for many years in helping our patrons find jobs locally.  You may request a current copy at the Computer and Career Center office.

How do I apply for a job at the Library?

At any given time, the Library may or may not be hiring.  However, applications are accepted year round and may be requested at any public service desk.  Young adults, sixteen or seventeen years of age, may apply for the position of Library Page.  If you are eighteen or older, you may apply for positions such as Library Aide, Custodian, Cleaner, and Monitor (Security Guard).  Librarian trainees need to be currently enrolled in a ALA (American Library Association) approved Master's degree program.  Some positions, such as Custodian, Clerk, Senior Clerk require passing a Nassau County Civil Service exam and being appointed from the Nassau County Civil Service List.  Monitors are required to have a New York State Security Guard license.  Librarians must have completed a Master's Degree in Library Science and must be certified as a Public Librarian by New York State.  Librarians are appointed through the Nassau County Civil Service Commission.

What other resources does the Job and Education Information Center have to help me with my job search?

The Computer and Career Center has 32 computers, each with Internet access and the popular Microsoft Office programs:  Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, and Publisher, as well as Microsoft Works, WordPerfect, and WinWay Resume, which provides information on a full range of job & career choices.  The print version is also available in a set of large binders labeled Careers Collection in the vocational section of the library.