Libraries overwhelmed by Elkhart County's unemployed

By Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

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To avoid the crowds at WorkOne locations, more people are heading to the library to file for unemployment. As a result, smaller library branches like Pierre Moran have set up special workstations and waiting areas just for those seeking to access the Workforce Development Web site. (WSBT-TV photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Jan 12, 2009 at 6:00 PM EST

Story Updated: Mar 4, 2009 at 3:22 PM EST

ELKHART — The high unemployment rate is putting a huge strain on local unemployment offices, and it's now causing problems for libraries trying to help.

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The Elkhart Library System has served as one location where the unemployed can receive some assistance. Computers have been set up for those out of work to file online for unemployment benefits.

As the unemployed numbers go up, more are using the system, sometimes taxing existing staff and library computer usage.

“It's just been an overwhelming demand for us,” said Connie Jo Ozinga, director of the Elkhart Library System. “We're working really hard in trying to help those people. We've put additional computers in every location that are for Workforce [Development] filing only.”

As a result, the smaller library branches like Pierre Moran have to make extra accommodations to serve those using the WorkOne site and accommodate their regular customers as well.

“We've had to set up new systems for a seating area for people to wait in an orderly fashion,” said Marcia Vierck of the Pierre Moran Library. “We've started issuing numbers. Yesterday we had 79 people file for unemployment."

“On the previous Sunday — yesterday — there were 51 people in line when they unlocked the doors,” Ozinga said.

Right now the library system is doing the best it can to keep up with the demand — a demand they expect to grow.

"And to continue to try, as best we can, with our limited space and our limited resources to serve these very needy taxpayers in our community,” added Ozinga.

The library system is working to see if WorkOne staffers can help the libraries on days when more people are filing unemployment claims online.

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