Get Back-to-School Ready with the Library

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Get Back-to-School Ready with the Library

Aimé Lohmeyer

Aimé Lohmeyer is a librarian and the head of outreach for the New Orleans Public Library.

Pack up those backpacks, sharpen those pencils, and lace up those new shoes because it’s time for New Orleans to go back to school. But, are you sure you have all the supplies you need? One of the most versatile tools for student success is not only free, but available to all ages, all over the city, and to all types of students. Yep, you guessed it, it’s your New Orleans Public Library.

Remember when our PBS friend Arthur Read said “Having fun isn’t hard when you have a library card!” What he didn’t say was, just having a card isn’t enough –– you also need to use it. Lucky for us, doing just that is now easier than ever before.

Libraries have come a long way over the years, and there are more options than ever for how we can use our cards ––and more library resources than Arthur would’ve ever thought possible. In addition to offering books, magazines, movies, and programs, you can access the Library digitally 24-hours a day, seven days a week, completely free.

So, when it comes to making the grade, whether you’re a do-your-homework-right-after-schooler or a Sunday-night-scrambler, your New Orleans Public Library card has got you covered.

Below are just a few of our favorite education-based e-resources that are sure to help any student succeed in school this year.

Homework Louisiana

Accessible to all Louisiana residents with a Library card, Homework Louisiana is comprehensive educational tool offers one-on-one, online tutoring in all subjects, for K through college level, by real instructors and educators.

Britannica Library

This online encyclopedia and atlas is a fun educational, interactive way to explore the world. With thousands of articles and videos and customizable results based on age group and grade level, Britannica Library is a fantastic resource for all learners.

Learning Express

Learning Express is an online hub for test prep, video instruction, and career resources for high school, college, and adult learners.

It’s a great place to get ready for college admission tests, AP exams, learn more about potential career paths, and so much more.

LinkedIn Learning

Formerly Lynda.com, this massive online training library offers self-paced and on-demand content. Learn business, software, technology, and creative skills with online video tutorials taught by recognized industry professionals.

Keep in mind, though, that well-rounded students, accomplished adults, and life-long learners, aren’t people who simply pass the test. They open themselves up to new ideas, step outside of their comfort zones, try new things they may not be good at right away, and strive to know more. Going back to school doesn’t have to be all work and no play, and really, it shouldn’t be! Much of what we call “play” is also learning, just not in the service of the strictly academic.

We hope by now it’s no surprise that the Library is here for when you want to have some fun, too. But these resources are not just online, but in person and at our city’s great museums, the zoo, and aquarium, as well.

Creativebug

Access to hundreds of video tutorials by artists and makers in painting, drawing, crafting, and more, for all ages and skill levels.

Kanopy

Stream, on-demand movies, documentaries and foreign films on your devices or your TV at home.

Best Buy Teen Tech Center

Located at Main Library and just for teens, this makerspace has the mentors, computers and equipment to help you learn to take your idea and make it a reality in graphic design, music editing, film production, sewing, coding, and more.

Culture Pass

Visit area art and history museums, the zoo and the aquarium free! Simply pick the day you want to go, reserve a ticket at culturepass.nolalibrary.org, save the confirmation code, and go.

So, as students are gearing up for kindergarten or their senior year, a fully loaded semester, or just a few classes, a Library card can make all the difference. The Library really does have what you need make this year and those that follow a success. And, while we’d love to see you in person, we understand you’re busy too! Find all the resources above and many more on our Student Success webpage.

Don’t have a Library card yet? Visit any Library location to sign up for one for free. Happy learning!