With the upcoming closing of the DeKalb office of the Illinois Department of Employment Security, state Rep. Robert Pritchard, R-Hinckley, wants the unemployed to know they can apply for benefits on the Internet. Most area libraries offer access to computers and the Internet, assistance in using the computer and resume coaching.

IDES announced in January that due to about $7 million in funding reductions, seven offices will close. In addition to the DeKalb office, facilities in Centralia, East St. Louis, Galesburg, Jacksonville, Mattoon and Murphysboro will close. In all, 190 positions will be lost.

When determining which facilities would close, IDES director Jay Rowell said each office was evaluated on several criteria, including workload and lease considerations.