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Thanks to a $5,000 grant, the Hyattsville library branch will be able to better equip area jobseekers with the computer and interviewing skills needed to find gainful employment.

The Hyattsville branch will use the grant to launch a pilot program this summer, which will train area residents in resume writing, basic computer skills and interviewing. The training will be offered in both English and Spanish.

The program is one of 70 grants awarded last month to public libraries in 21 states from The Dollar General Foundation. Hyattsville's pilot program could expand to other branches said Robin Jacobsen, senior administrator for public services at the Prince George's County Memorial Library System.

Jacobsen said the Hyattsville branch was chosen, in part, because it has the most number of computers in the county — more than 50 — and because many residents use them to apply for jobs online because they do not have home computers.

"We have thousands of people who come in to use our computers everyday, and the need was obvious," Jacobsen said. "And employers are increasingly using online applications. It's something they can't do at home.

"At the Hyattsville branch, we find a lot of folks who use our computers everyday for job searching would be more comfortable getting that information in both languages," she added.

John Krivack, who heads up adult services at the Hyattsville branch, said many entry-level jobs at large chains such as Burger King and Home Depot require applicants to apply online.

"Many people haven't developed computer skills to allow them to do that quickly and efficiently and effectively," he said. "And we're happy when we can see people we can help. And Lord knows, in this economy, people need any help they can get."