Unlocking Careers Guidance in the Heart of the Community

I offered an in-person 1:1 to a young person who had left in the middle of the academic year. When thinking of where to meet, the space needed to be relatively private, safe and accessible. We don’t have a school to meet at, cafés can be busy…What about the library? 

My local library offers a neutral, welcoming space free from the pressures of a formal classroom or office setting. I spent many hours there reading up on career theories and writing assessments for my Level 6! We timed it well, as there were no events going on, and the conversation area was empty except for us. The quiet yet dynamic environment provided the perfect backdrop for a session. 

There were comforting distractions from other library users researching on the computers, children settling into cozy sofas with a new book, and a council team offering drop-in support. There was a real sense of community; a warm, welcoming energy which created a safe, non judgemental and supportive space.

With access to free Wi-Fi, research materials, and digital resources, I have never thought of the library as my ally to empower young people to make informed decisions about their futures (the Wi-Fi there is better than mine at home). And, when you think about it, the accessibility, openness and inclusivity of a library reflect the cornerstones of high quality careers guidance. And the coffee isn’t bad in there either!