The unemployment rate in DeKalb Coutny has hit a 17-year high in 2009.

According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security Web site, unemployment is at 9.5 percent in DeKalb County — the highest it has been since 1992.

IDES spokesman Greg Rivera said there was a similar economic climate in the early 1990s.

“1992 was the last big recession we were in, which would be the reason for this,” he said.

Paul Borek, executive director of DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation, said one reason why unemployment is so high is because demand for products is low.

“Demand for goods and services has significantly decreased,” he said. “Companies that produce these goods and services are losing revenue.”

Borek said these companies then have to react to this loss.

“When companies lose revenue, they have to cut their costs,” he said. “And labor is usually where they turn to reduce their costs.”

Borek said the Illinois workNet Center, 1701 E. Lincoln Highway, is a great place for those searching for employment to get help.

“I recommend the Illinois workNet Center as the best place to start where people can get job training and help with job searches,” Borek said.

Rivera said IDES is assisting those who currently don’t have a job.

“The IDES has a job workshop to help with skills assessments,” he said. “People who are laid off

can assess their skills to use for their future careers.”

Rivera has advice for those who are looking for a job.

“They need to stay positive, as difficult as that may be,” he said. “It will take time, but things will turn around with the economy.”

For more information on the Illinois workNet Center, go to its Web site www.ides.state.il.us/ietc/dekalb/ or visit its DeKalb location at 1701 E. Lincoln Highway.