The New York Public Library is now lending ties, brief cases and handbags out to cardholders who have job interviews coming up but have nothing formal to wear for the occasion.
People reportedly have seven seconds to make a strong first impression when meeting someone for the first time, which includes potential employers, Business Insider noted.
And while your resume and experience may go a long way, if you do not look the part, the chances are you may be overlooked for that top position.
Not everyone has the resources or time to splurge on a winning outfit and accessories, which is where initiatives such as the NYPL's Grow Up work accessories collection at the Riverside Library in Manhattan's Upper West Side, comes in handy, Mental Floss reported.
The range includes various neckties and bow ties, briefcases and handbags that can be borrowed for three weeks by teens and adults belonging to the library.
Additionally, cardholders have access to information sheets offering valuable job interview tips, free career resources and suggested books, and websites and organizations that can help with professional fashion advice and attire, the NYPL said.
The program forms part of the NYPL's Innovation Project, which gives staff the chance to put forth their ideas on how to solve various community challenges and provides funding and support to their creative program ideas, according to The Charles H. Revson Foundation, which provided a grant for the initiative.
At the moment the project is limited to one library however, if it is successful, the initiative may spread to other branches.
The Paschalville Branch Library in Philadelphia offers a similar service, providing ties to job seekers for a three-week period, Inhabit noted, while organizations such as Dress for Success and Career Gear provide formal clothing to the public.
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