For many, the thought of studying and libraries goes hand in hand. Obviously, there are books — whether you’re looking for a specific reference book or something a little more fun to relax with over the weekend — but today’s libraries have been rewritten and offer so much more than just books.
Here are the top five things available at the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) to get your kids back-to-school ready.
Tech Cards
Thanks to a partnership between CALS and local school districts in the service area (Pulaski County, Little Rock, Jacksonville North Pulaski and Perry County) all students have a tech card with access to the CALS student portal and the library’s digital collection. And students can still sign up for a traditional library card and get full use of printed materials and the Library of Things.
Count Up
This is an after-school math tutoring program. Students are paired with qualified tutors to provide one-on-one help, and they can choose from local in-person tutoring or virtual tutoring. Students can benefit from specific math homework help or just overall math skills building.
Mango Languages
The days of knowing only one or even two languages are behind us. As the world becomes more interconnected, students who learn additional languages at an early age are more fluent and have the opportunity to travel not only for leisure, but for business as well. Choose from more than 70 languages and learn with the program’s proven linguistic methodology.
Brainfuse HelpNow
This online tutoring service is available for all ages on demand from 2-11 p.m. No scheduling is necessary; you can hop on and get immediate help if you or your child is stuck on any core topics (math, reading, writing, science and social studies). There’s even help with SAT prep. With the option to chat, draw, mark-up and share files, it will feel like the tutor is right there with you.
After-School Programs
With 15 branches across the system, you’re never very far from a library. Visit your local library branch for after-school programs covering everything from entertainment to education. With the system’s grab-and-go crafts, you can take the fun with you. As a bonus, CALS serves after-school meals at 11 locations, including Saturday meals at several branches.
Library hours vary by location, with many branches open extended evening hours, Saturdays and even Sundays. And, of course, the virtual branch at cals.org is always open.