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FSogol

(45,360 posts)
Thu Sep 27, 2018, 08:19 AM Sep 2018

New York library lends out ties, briefcases and handbags for job interviews

Most libraries around the country provide much more than books — they have computers, printers and some even have telescopes and microscopes for patrons to check out. Several lend American Girl dolls so kids can check out the highly coveted and pricey toys for a few weeks at a time.

And starting last month, a New York library branch began experimenting with new offerings: neck ties, bow ties, handbags and briefcases intended for people with limited resources who are heading for job interviews, auditions or any other events for which they need to dress up.

“They can use it for a school performance, or prom if they want a tie,” said young adult librarian Michelle Lee, who came up with the idea for the Riverside branch of the New York Public Library. “It doesn’t matter what size you are, anybody could use them.”

The concept came to her in 2016 when she was teaching a free class at the library about job seeking and résumé making. She told the high school students in attendance: “You want to look professional. You shouldn’t be bringing a backpack to a job interview."


More by Allison Klein at:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2018/09/17/new-york-library-lends-out-ties-briefcases-handbags-job-interviews/?utm_term=.e06f0cd4b3c3&wpisrc=nl_optimist&wpmm=1
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New York library lends out ties, briefcases and handbags for job interviews (Original Post) FSogol Sep 2018 OP
This is such a cool idea! Lars39 Sep 2018 #1
Some around me lend tools. Very cool. n/t FSogol Sep 2018 #2
That's really serving the community! Very neat! Lars39 Sep 2018 #3
That's such a useful project. procon Sep 2018 #4

Lars39

(26,093 posts)
1. This is such a cool idea!
Thu Sep 27, 2018, 08:26 AM
Sep 2018

Somewhat unrelated, but I remember when I was in high school, our little public library would loan out paintings, reproductions of famous artwork.

procon

(15,805 posts)
4. That's such a useful project.
Thu Sep 27, 2018, 09:15 AM
Sep 2018

People could donate ties, handbags and briefcases that they no longer use, putting them to good use rather than just storing them or throwing them away.

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