Online Resources Available from the Library

For the past few weeks, I’ve been battling with our online resources making sure each link works correctly so that the teachers and librarians at the local schools have access to these amazing resources.  Well, let me tell you, after testing, re-testing, sending out step-by-step directions, I’m exhausted but I think I’ve also been able to get everything to work.  I’m technically not a tech person at all, but I know my way around technology enough that I do a lot of work on our website as well as troubleshooting when the need arises in the library.  I’m sure my boyfriend would argue at my competence level, because I usually end up going to him for help when I need it, but I can hold my own at work… when all else fails turn it off and re-start it.  But I digress…

We have some amazing online resources available for both adults and children and I’m sure they don’t get as much use as they should… especially for the cost of each one!  So over the past few days, I’ve begun to create a pamphlet highlighting some of these amazing resources that kids and parents might not be familiar with.  I think I’ve got a relatively organized and not too overwhelming result and I’ll be happy to add it to the collection of pamphlets about the library, hopefully people use it and the online resources!  My biggest hang-up, still, is the term “online resources.”  I know what it means, but I wonder if the general populace understands the term… something to keep thinking about for sure.  I think I’m also going to start using these resources more during my programs with the elementary school students.  I think if they see how to use the resources, they may be more likely to take a look at home.  Currently, we have access to Scholastic’s TrueFLIX (which is pretty awesome!) – it offers the True Books series online for you to read as well as quizzes and places to find more information.  I hope to see our numbers go up once this information is more easily available to patrons.