Utilizing Technology to Support and Extend Access to Students and Job Seekers during the Pandemic

Abstract

The ongoing pandemic has necessitated a re-imagining of library services. The needs of our community changed and we set out to find ways to provide assistance to those who could benefit the most including students and the unemployed. The Pflugerville Public Library offered virtual learning support and job search assistance by providing electronic resources, virtual services and expanding access to technology. New resources include a platform offering virtual tutoring for students, virtual services like job search coaching, and scholarships for an online high school program for adults. Expanding access includes a partnership with the local school district to better connect students with our resources and providing expanded Wi-Fi availability and other tools like laptops. The combination of utilizing technology to address the current needs and expanding access to this technology has allowed us to better serve the community. Many of these changes will last beyond the pandemic.