Philly Career Launch has wrapped up our Spring 2023 career exploration workshops, but we’ll be back in the fall with more programming, so stay tuned!

In the meantime, here are three things you can do this summer to get your career going:

1. Go "Career Cruising"

The Internet is full of resources for exploring careers. But it can be hard to know which ones are helpful. We recommend Career Cruising, an online tool that will help you discover new careers that match your strengths. You can use Career Cruising for free with a Free Library of Philadelphia card. (Don’t have a Library card? Here’s how you can get one.)

To get started, go to the Free Library website (freelibrary.org) and click on Databases in the blue box at the top. Then, click on the letter “C” and select Career Cruising from the results. Log onto Career Cruising with your library card number and PIN. Under the Assessment tab, click on Matchmaker & My Skills. Create a login. Then, complete the Matchmaker Assessment.

2. Connect with Skills Training Programs

Hundreds of programs in Philadelphia train people in new careers. The Free Library’s Career Training Database will help you find the right program. Many of these programs offer training at very low or no cost and do not require a high school diploma. The Career Training Database is a free resource available online. You do not need a library card to access it. To get started, go to: careertraining.freelibrary.org.

3. Work on Math, Reading, or English-Language Skills

If you want to take classes to earn your high school diploma, GED, or an equivalent, brush up on your math and reading skills, or take English language classes, your best bet is the City-supported Next Level Learning. Call the Next Level Learning Hotline at 833-750-5627 or email adultedu@phila.gov to get started. It’s best to call between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. when a Career Navigator can answer; live translation is available for the call. There is also an online intake form available. A Career Navigator will discuss your educational goals with you and help you enroll in the right class for your schedule and needs.

The Job Seekers section of the Free Library's website has up-to-date information on upcoming job seeker programs (in-person and virtual), electronic resources such as databases of career reviews and salaries, and helpful guides for conducting a job search. These resources are available anytime at freelibrary.org/jobseekers or click on the "Find a Job" link on the Free Library’s homepage.