Public libraries have become prime resources for people looking for a job, whether they have been laid off, are just starting out or are thinking of changing careers.

Librarians said their libraries provide numerous services for job hunters. They have subscriptions to job posting databases, books and Internet services to help job hunters write resumes and cover letters, computer practice tests to prepare for civil service and professional license exams, and lots more.

Libraries also have public computers that can be used by people who don’t have their own computers or can’t afford Internet service.

"The job market has changed drastically," said Bob Gualtieri, the recently-retired director of the Hamden Public Library, which has a Brundage Branch and one in Whitneyville.

He and other librarians say there is always someone job hunting at the Miller Memorial Library, Hamden’s main library in the center of town. If they aren’t using the library’s computers, they use the library’s Wi-Fi (wireless) service and connect to the Internet with their own laptop computers.

"Public libraries have always provided Internet access, and that’s especially popular now," said Barbara Cangiano, head reference librarian at the James Blackstone Memorial Library in Branford.

Libraries don’t keep records on how many job hunters use their services, so it’s impossible to know for sure. Reference librarian Bill Basel said librarians at the Cheshire Public Library usually interact with job hunters only when they ask for help, something librarians at other libraries also noted.

But librarians say they can definitely tell the number is higher than ever for a variety of reasons.

First, most employers now require job seekers to apply over the Internet. Very few accept applications on printed paper through the mail. That can come as a shock to people who have no computer or Internet connection at home.

"There’s always a segment of the population that don’t have their own Internet access," said Cangiano.

Internet job search databases are another reason. Job listings usually link the applicant directly to an Internet page that accepts the application online.

Gualtieri said Internet job search databases can list jobs that were only posted minutes before. Job hunters can also limit job searches to particular geographic areas, or broaden them to a nationwide search.

"One of the things people use are online practice tests," said Hamden reference librarian Phil Scott.

Library patrons can get access to practice tests for police and firefighter exams, professional certifications and licenses, and even the test for U.S. citizenship, which might be required for some jobs.

Librarians said many of these services are accessible to database services that the libraries subscribe to, such as Job Now, which has links to job postings and help lines for assistance creating a resume or job interview techniques.

One subscription service, which is provided by the state library system, is called the Connecticut Digital Library. Congiano said it links residents to job search databases for newspaper classified ads and many other services online.

"It’s a wonderful resource that hopefully will not be impacted by the cuts by the state," she said.

Of course, some people prefer to borrow books on these topics and take them home, something the libraries also provide.

Scott pointed out that the Miller Library has specific books on technology jobs, Baby Boomer job hunters, corporate job interviews or career planning.

Reference librarian Pam Ross said she has helped people create a free e-mail account or navigate a job application website. There’s only so much help librarians can give people, however. When it comes to landing the job, well, that's in the applicant's hands.