Howard County Library

Howard County Library System (HCLS) will partner with the Howard County Office of Workforce Development and Luminus Network for New Americans to develop and provide contextualized workplace English as a Second Language classes, job search skills, and interview/job preparation training for skilled immigrants. HCLS will provide these resources to aid immigrants in developing the skills they need to increase their earning potential and find jobs in their areas of expertise. At least 120 participants will improve their English proficiency and 30 percent will receive invitations for job interviews. This project also will inform libraries nationwide on how they can strengthen their role and be responsive to the shifting needs of new Americans by identifying classes, staff competencies, services, and partnerships to overcome key barriers to the integration of immigrants into the workforce.