A NEW Jobs Hub has opened in a public library to tackle higher than average unemployment rates in the BH12 area of Poole.

The community initiative on the first floor of Rossmore Library in Herbert Avenue is believed to be the first of its kind in the area, operating three sessions a week.

It is independent of the council and local job centres.

The idea is to provide a relaxed and friendly environment where people can view a daily jobs board as well as obtain free help with job searching, CV writing, interview skills and filling out application forms. They can also access laptop computers, wireless internet and a telephone.

Sylvia Webster, neighbourhood manager of the Bourne Estate, explained that the hub was a new way of using community facilities, with the café on the ground and the newly revamped first floor helping to create a welcoming atmosphere.

“We think this might be the first independent community-based jobs hub to be set up in Poole,” she added. “There’s no pressure and people don’t have to fill in loads of forms. They can come in, look around. They don’t have to talk to anyone, but someone will be there is they want to.”

Jobs Hub co-ordinator Carrie Smith said: “We want to help encourage people back into work. Our role is to involve more of the community and have them come in and not feel the hub is owned by the library or borough.”

The library has stocked up on useful books for the hub, and free skills and learning courses are available for the unemployed. The hub will also be working with the Chamber of Commerce and Wessex Enterprise to support people who want to set up their own businesses and achieve something great.”

The hub is open on Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm and 4 to 6pm and on Thursdays from 10am to 12 noon.