Funded by The Charles H. Revson Foundation, New York Library Lends Out Ties, Briefcases, Handbags for Job Interviews
Most libraries around the country provide much more than books: They have computers and printers, and some even have telescopes and microscopes for patrons to check out. Several lend American Girl dolls, allowing kids to check out the highly coveted and pricey toys for a few weeks at a time.
And starting last month, a New York library branch began experimenting with new offerings: neckties, bow ties, handbags and briefcases intended for people with limited resources who are heading for job interviews, auditions or any other event for which they need to dress up.
"They can use it for a school performance, or prom if they want a tie," said young adult librarian Michelle Lee, who came up with the idea for the Riverside branch of the New York Public Library. "It doesn't matter what size you are - anybody could use them."
The concept came to her in 2016, when Lee was teaching a free class at the library about job seeking and résumé making...