The library has traditionally been a place to find reliable information for a research paper or a book for a book report. However, many students don't realize the various non-traditional information sources available throughout the library. The Arapahoe Library District hosts a wealth of resources that may be helpful for any number of school projects.
For example, the Library District can link students to online homework help with live tutors, science project ideas, research databases and language learning software. In addition, the library is the place to go when preparing for SATs, MCATs and other tests.
There are several places to start when it comes to the Library District's resources.
Visiting any branch and asking a librarian or staff member for help is one option. The staff at Arapahoe Library District is highly trained at knowing just where to find the right information. Or, visit the Library District's website at
www.arapahoelibraries.org for an array of resources that are comprehensive and efficient. Finally, call 303-LIBRARY (303-542-7279) to be connected to a person dedicated to finding the answers or direction needed.
Parents can help young students get a head-start on learning by visiting the Library District's website and clicking on the "Kids" tab to be directed to "Tales' Treehouse." This part of the website features homework assistance (with a link for online tutoring) and learning help in math, science, language arts and social studies. That's not all ... Tales' Treehouse is also home to educational games and other activities such as craft ideas, interactive science projects, fun events and programs at the libraries and more.
For teens and college students who normally begin a research project by typing the topic into Google, there is a better way! For a research paper, the Library District's online research databases are helpful. According to teen service librarian
Anna Zillinger, "The great thing about research databases is that you know for certain that every search produces both quality and relevant information resources to use for your assignments. In most cases you will find the databases have exactly the type of information you need, so you don't have to go through pages and pages of results."
Adults looking to continue a lifetime of learning by picking up a new language, or students studying a second language in school have several options. First, the libraries have many language video and audio tools to check out as well as vocabulary books and dictionaries. Also, the Arapahoe Library District subscribes to the language learning product "Tell Me More," which provides online remote access for English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Dutch. "Tell Me More" is a comprehensive language learning program that includes games to enhance learning, videos on pronunciation and a business traveler module.
With the help of library staff, the ALD Answers staff (303-LIBRARY or 303-542-7279) or a visit to
www.arapahoelibraries.org, there are an amazing number of resources offered through the Arapahoe Library District, whether for a preschooler just entering kindergarten, or a graduate student working on a thesis paper.