Brainfuse is the online resource for career services, test prep, and software tutorials for Iowa public and academic libraries, formerly provided by Learning Express.

Brainfuse offers:

• JobNow: one-of-a-kind career assistance that covers all major aspects of job hunting.
• Adult Learning Center: providing academic assistance designed for adult learners.
• VetNow: supporting the community’s veterans and their families with locating eligible benefits, live online academic tutoring, employment transition assistance, and finding community resources.

The State Library provides Brainfuse at no cost to Iowa libraries through a state appropriation from Iowa Workforce Development.

Live Job Coaching and Veteran Support

One feature that sets Brainfuse apart is the live coaching and live veteran support available during most afternoons and evenings. Patrons can access these services after clicking the library’s Brainfuse link and creating an account. Once a patron selects a live service, an online whiteboard automatically launches and patrons are able to communicate in live, online sessions with expert job coaches or veteran navigators. We highly encourage libraries to set up an account and try out this process so you can recommend this valuable service to patrons who might benefit.

• Live job coaching is available daily from 12pm to 10pm CST.
• Live veteran support is available Monday to Friday from 1pm to 9pm CST.

Background

Previously the State Library and Iowa Workforce Development provided online learning resources through EBSCO’s Learning Express. After the initial three year contract followed by three one-year extensions, state purchasing rules required a new competitive bidding process. Last fall, with input from public and academic librarians, the State Library posted a request for proposals for a career services online resource. Four Iowa librarians along with State Library staff reviewed and evaluated the proposals and determined Brianfuse offered the best components and value for the resources needed.

Source: https://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/ld/k-p/online-resources/brainfuse