When the going gets tough, libraries get you going. Oak Harbor Library now has notebook computers for job seekers to borrow for extended in-library use.

Free thumb drives are also available to job seekers who need to save their resume and other information. These are two of the free tools Sno-Isle Libraries offers to help customers get through challenging economic times.

The public PCs currently available in the library are in high demand by job seekers, as well as other customers. Making notebooks available for use in the library gives job seekers more computer time to seek job opportunities, complete online applications, file for unemployment benefits, prepare resumes and cover letters, and take advantage of other resources.

There is no set time limit on the notebooks, but they must be returned before the library closes.

The notebook computers are funded through a grant from the Office of the Secretary of State, Washington State Library, as a part of the Renew Washington Project, which is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Renew Washington grant program is helping 17 public libraries across the state meet needs in their local communities.