17 Free Library Resources for Homeschoolers
Homeschool
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What do you think of when you hear the phrase, “free library resources?” Books? DVDs?
Today’s libraries offer so much more! With an internet-connected computer and a valid library card (and sometimes a PIN), thousands of free resources are available to you!
Here are some of the resources I’ve found:
Interlibrary Loan System
Most libraries are connected with an interlibrary loan system, and you can check out books from libraries all over the country. Ask your branch about their system—most of the time, you can request books online and they’ll find them for you.
Online Databases
Libraries have a wealth of online resources (databases and e-sources) on their websites for students. What’s great about these? They’re “referred” sources—true, authoritative sources far better than Google. Search your library’s website for “e-sources” or homework resources.
Field and/or Resource Trips
Plan a field trip to the library. The children’s or youth services librarian will be happy to make your visit so much more than just a tour of the library! One of the things the librarian can do is show your group how to use the online resources available to them. If you’re working on a specific unit or project, she can also gather materials for you and/or help you and the children find materials.
Book Clubs for Children
Many libraries have book clubs for children. My librarian friend Judy Gann has a weekly children’s book group at her library. “Most of the attendees are homeschoolers,” says Judy. “This is a great way for homeschoolers to participate in a group activity. Most of these book clubs meet once a month, and the library staff will tell you the book for the next month ahead of time so you can determine if it is appropriate for your child.”
Book Club Kits
Some libraries offer book club kits for children. Most kits consist of twelve to fifteen copies of a title with discussion questions if you’d like to do a book club with other students.
Programs
Most libraries have monthly school-age programs at the library during the school year. And don’t forget the summer reading program! Many libraries have special classes or programs. Looking at our local library’s schedule, these are some of the things they offer: Family Movie Night, Knitting Circle, Theatre Camp, Writer’s Workshop, Snack Attack (Cooking), Finger Knitting, Lego Block Parties, Puppet Shows, and Storytime. If you have an idea for an activity you’d like to coordinate, talk to your local librarian.
Training Programs
Some libraries will schedule computer classes for your children if you ask.
Shannon: “My library offers free classes of all kinds for kids: art, science, history, etc. They also have language programs I can access through them for free online that I will use to help teach Hebrew next year.”
Booklists
Libraries have a variety of booklists of suggested titles for different age groups and on many subjects.
Homework Help
Many libraries provide a link to “Homework Help” on their website. Some libraries give you access to websites like Tutor.com for free!
Ryan: “My daughter uses a program from the library for her to learn Chinese.”
Lesson Plans
Our local library system provides Arkansas history lesson plans. Some libraries also provide curricula support. Libraries can develop customized booklists, webliographies, and study guides tailored to the unique needs of students. Even if these services aren’t available on your library’s website, ask a local librarian if he or she can offer this service.
Art Galleries
One of our local libraries hosts an art gallery for students to view.
Museum Passes
In a partnership with local museums, many libraries provide free passes to local art, history, and children’s museums. Warning: These are very popular and are often checked out. Check with your local library to see what’s available.
Computers
In addition to public computers and wireless access, some libraries have laptop checkout. (Some restrictions apply.)
Dial-a-Story
Our local library has a dial-a-story program. Every day the kids can call a special number and listen to a new story!
Free Media
Many libraries have a virtual branch where you can download audio books to your PC or Mac. You can then transfer this media to your iPad, Nook, or other devices. Our branch also has a virtual reference library with a digital movie catalog, digital music catalog, and digital magazine library! My library uses Hoopla for the digital access, and once I log on via my library it works similar to a Netflix account!
Books by Mail or Delivery
Some libraries mail books to patrons free of charge. You must have a disability to qualify for these services.
Bonus Resources from Friends
Some libraries loan more than books. Here’s a list of what some libraries offer:
Cathy: “Puzzles, games, and toys at our library.”
Lisa: “I worked in a library where we loaned out puppets.”
Cynthia: “Ours has passes to some museums and games. Oh, and they have the seed library!”
Jeanie: “Local museum & zoo passes.”
Aquilla: “Paintings.”
Holly: “GPS for geocaching.”
Find out what your local library can do for you!
Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents
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