Library resources help boost young minds

Written by Bridgid Gallagher-Sauter, Children’s Librarian, Westwood Branch 

While COVID-19 may have put a cramp in our regular parenting and schooling routine, it doesn’t have to stop our kids from learning and growing. Fortunately, the Library has digital resources to help even our youngest kids and their families stay engaged and to keep learning this school year.  

Educational Resources 

The Library has databases just for kids—from preschool to high school—on every school subject. To find these resources, visit our online kids pages, opens a new window and teen pages, opens a new window.

For parents and educators looking to encourage your child’s reading skills, check out a few of our favorite databases, opens a new window.

Novelist K-Plus 

Novelist, opens a new window is a handy tool for those looking for their next read. Search by age level, interest, author, or subject matter to find reviews of books. The site also includes information on reading levels, Lexile, opens a new window, and similar authors or titles.  

OverDrive Kids 

Kids can access eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines, and videos through Overdrive’s online catalog, opens a new window. Titles are available for all reading levels—from picture books to chapter books.  

Scholastic Book Flix 

Great for preschool to early elementary students, Scholastic BookFlix, opens a new window is an easy to navigate database that pairs an animated storybook with a nonfiction book on an array of topics. The books also come with games intended to boost vocabulary and comprehension. Kids can read the stories themselves, or listen along as someone narrates the text. For educators and parents, lesson plans are available on each book pairing.  

Tumble Books 

For preschoolers through sixth graders, Tumble Books, opens a new window has hundreds of titles in read-along, animated, and eBook formats. They also have games, puzzles, and graphic novels available. Their “Common Core” tab is handy for educators and parents looking to find titles for specific educational standards and lesson plans. For visually impaired kids, kids with dyslexia, or reading delays the audio options are great.

Virtual and In-Person Programs 

In addition to curating booklists and offering databases online, the Library is also offering socially distant events for kids and families. Check out our events calendar, opens a new window to find a story walk or an outside storytime near you. If you prefer to stay in or can’t make an in-person event, our YouTube channel, opens a new window has a variety of storytime and STEM experiment videos.

So, as we’re facing the challenge of sending our kiddos back to school in a blended or online environment, the Library is here to support you with free online and in-person learning resources.