Career Navigators in Libraries: a Person-Centered Emerging Service Model

More libraries are building or expanding their staff, space, programs, and services focused on boosting workforce and small business development in their communities. Employing and/or linking to career navigators is an emerging role that builds on library reference and digital navigator models. Career navigators are professionals with extensive knowledge of workforce development programs and services who provide support for those entering or re-entering the workforce, as well as those interested in a career change. Some career navigators focus on high-need populations, such as English language learners, people who have been incarcerated, or on special areas of employment, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). Career navigators meet people where they are by helping them identify pathways to high-wage employment based on their passions, skills, and experiences. Hear from an experienced panel of library staff with direct experience and varied approaches to deploying and funding career navigators to empower residents to connect their skills and interests with jobs and careers in growth industries, including through virtual reality. Leave with proven staffing and service approaches to implement and advocate with local decision-makers and partners.