Idaho Commission for Libraries

The Idaho Department of Labor is teaming with the Idaho Commission for Libraries to provide Idaho libraries two resources for their Economic Recovery Toolkit.

1. A one-year subscription to Career Information System (CIS)—a comprehensive, computerized information system for career exploration and planning—will be offered free to all public libraries in Idaho from September 1, 2009 to August 31, 2010
2. IdahoWorks—a web-based workforce service

FAQs
What is the purpose of this project?
The purpose is to bring career development, employment, and unemployment benefits resources to the citizens of Idaho via public libraries by providing access to CIS and IdahoWorks databases.

What’s the difference between CIS and IdahoWorks?
CIS is a comprehensive computerized information system for career development that helps people

1. explore career opportunities
2. find educational programs related to those opportunities
3. make successful career decisions and educational plans
4. find work

IdahoWorks is an online workforce service where

1. job seekers can create and update resumes/profiles, and find jobs
2. unemployment benefits users can file claims, check benefit eligibility, and review payment summary
3. employers can list jobs, manage job listings, review lists of candidates, and screen applicant resumes

How do I know if my library is eligible for free CIS access?
All public libraries in Idaho are eligible for free CIS access.

What are the first steps if I’m interested?
Contact Shirley Biladeau at shirley.biladeau@libraries.idaho.gov

How much will the CIS subscription cost my library?
There is no fee to Idaho public libraries for the CIS subscription from September 1, 2009 to August 31, 2010.

Who will pay for CIS after August 31, 2010?
If ongoing funding for CIS is not available after August 31, 2010, then participating libraries may choose to pay for the CIS subscription renewal.

How is CIS access for Idaho public libraries currently being funded?
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) stimulus package includes funding for the Idaho Department of Labor to provide all Idaho public libraries with free access to CIS.

What is the role of the library staff?
The role of library staff is to provide guidance for patrons in using CIS and IdahoWorks, as well as to promote CIS and IdahoWorks so patrons know about the availability of these two workforce-related databases.

How much staff time will this take to implement?
Although it will vary, the librarian with a minimum amount of time should be able to quickly show a patron the basics so that they can further explore.