On March 31, 2025, all Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) employees were placed on administrative leave, with access to their work systems blocked. The President replaced the agency’s leadership with the Deputy Secretary of Labor. Without leadership and staff, it’s expected that library funding will be halted.
This action puts crucial services at risk across the country—and especially here in Wisconsin. Federal law requires IMLS to provide support to public libraries, but that support is currently only guaranteed through September 2025.
Why IMLS Funding Matters to the Amery Area Public Library:
IMLS funds support BadgerLink, the state of Wisconsin's online library, currently available for free to all library users.
IMLS funds help support digital literacy efforts and access to free wifi and public computers to the Amery community, a real lifeline in rural communities where internet access is spotty.
IMLS funds help pay for staff to have required continuing education trainings. This allows us to spend more of our budget on materials and services.
IMLS funds support the ILL loan program, allowing patrons to access materials unavailable in the MORE catalog.
What can library users and supporters do to help?
Advocate for the services that matter to you! Please visit https://mywisconsinlibrary.org/ to learn more!
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About JobPod
Experience the library as a dependable bridge between the job seeker, job search experts, and employers. Formed under a partnership with the West Central Workforce Development Board, the Amery Area Public Library, and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, JobPod enables community members across West Central Wisconsin to access a full range of job services.
Community Resources
- West Central Workforce Development Board
- Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
- Unemployment Insurance (UI)
- Veteran Employment Services
- Training and Education
- Access Wisconsin: See if you qualify, apply for, and manage your state of Wisconsin benefits and programs, all in one place
- 211 Wisconsin: Connect to local programs and services to meet your individual needs, free and confidentially
Job Search Skills & Digital Literacy
Basic Technology Skill Development
- DigitalLearn:
- Learn basic technology skills, including how to use a computer, how to navigate websites, how to setup accounts, and how to complete successful job searches, among other topics
- GCFGlobal:
- Learn and develop the skills needed to advance in work and life, including technology, basic office, core skills such as reading and math, and workplace skills
- Microsoft Office Training Center:
- Get going quickly and easily with Office 365 video training for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams and more
- Online Meetings
- Introduction to Skype Videos (19 minutes)
- How to Use Zoom Videos
- Microsoft Teams: Get Started with Meetings Video (2 minutes) and Instructions
Technology Upskilling
- gener8tor: Access virtual, rapid skills training and career preparation for high-demand roles in business, manufacturing, and generative AI. Mentoring support also available to help with training program and job placement.
- Community Upskill: Learn foundation skills or explore career essential certificates for high demand careers in business, generative AI, and sustainability, among others.
Career Exploration
- Career Exploration/ONET
- Job Seeker Resources (from the Job Center of Wisconsin)
- Skill Explorer
- Labor Market Information
- Jobs in Different Industries (from the Job Center of Wisconsin)
Job Search Sites
- Job Center of Wisconsin
- Polk County Government Employment
- Careerbuilder.com
- Indeed.com
- Zip Recruiter
- Monster
- Wisconsin LGBT Chamber
- USAJobs
Job Search Applications
- Key Job Search Terms Handout
- Job Search and Networking Help
- Online Job Searching Videos (22 minutes)
- Job Applications Help
- Applying for Jobs Online Videos (14 minutes)
Resume Writing
- Creating Resumes Videos (21 minutes)
- Resume Writing Help
- How to Write a Chronological Resume Handout (MS-Word file)
- How to Write a Functional Resume Handout (MS-Word file)
- Job Center of Wisconsin: Create/Edit Resume
- Microsoft Word: Resumes Templates
- Monster: Resume Writing Advice & Help
Cover Letter Writing
- Cover Letter Help
- How to Write a Cover Letter Handout (MS-Word file)
- Microsoft Word: Cover Letter Templates
Interviewing Skills
Library Services and Resources
- Books on Writing Cover Letters
- Books on Writing Resumes
- Access to computers and internet
- Printing, copying, faxing, and scan-to-email services
- Confidential meeting spaces
- Library staff who can provide basic technology assistance
- Job search resources
Reserve the JobPod at the Amery Area Public Library
The West Central Workforce Development Board JobPod is located at the Amery Area Public Library, 104 Maple Street W., Amery WI, 54001.
Easily and reliably access job search resources, connect virtually with a workforce development expert, participate in online employment training, and more.
Bring along your own computer or other internet-enabled device, or borrow one from the library during your visit.
JobPod use is limited to 4 hours per day, per user/group
Reserve in advance by calling (715) 268-9340 or ask at a service desk about immediate availability.
Reserve a Meeting Room at the Amery Area Public Library
The Amery Area Public Library has three meeting rooms, each with table and chairs which can be reconfigured to suit your needs.
The Vault Room
- Located on the Upper Level
- Occupancy is approximately 20
Tables can be configured to accommodate 10-12 people - Smart TV
- Two whiteboards
The Upper Level Study Room
- Occupancy is 6-8
- Smart TV
- One whiteboard
The Lower Level Study Room
- Occupancy is 4-5
- One whiteboard