Take MPL Back to School With You!

By Chetla Jackson on Sep 3, 2024 12:00 AM

Just because summer fun is wrapping up, doesn't mean the library fun ends too. The Summer Reading Program may have ended, but your library is still here for you.

Families have received school shopping supply lists, teachers have prepared lesson plans for the upcoming school year, and lifelong learners continue to add to their search for new subjects and interests to pursue. When the hunt begins, add a checkbox for “MPL school resources” to your list so you can take MPL back to school with you!

Resources for Students

Returning to school means the return of book reports, essays, and other projects and assignments. Feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start? Never fear, MPL is here! In addition to extensive book collections, movies, and music, MPL offers a wide range of resources to help you get the job done.

Looking for research information for a book report or essay? Visit one of MPL's 13 locations across the city to check out a book or two. While you’re there, ask a librarian for a book recommendation on your topic of choice. If you can’t come in person, MPL also offers a host of databases including, but not limited to, Britannica encyclopedias for all school age groups. Visit the Homework Help & Academic Support page for access to these databases, as well as Brainfuse for live tutoring, homework help and writing assistance. The library's digital resources will have you glued to your computer screen…in a good way!

Take school projects to the next level with a visit to a Makerspace location at the Good Hope, Washington Park or Mitchell Street Branches. Each location offers a variety of equipment such as a laser cutter, recording studio, 3D scanner, various computer software programs and more.

Learning doesn’t end after high school, it also extends to college students, as well as adult learners. Utilize Gale Courses to help reinforce or supplement current classes, or learn a new skill. With a variety of topics ranging from accounting to writing, there is something for everyone. In addition to all the resources mentioned, libraries also offer private rooms for group study sessions and meetings. Visit the Community and Conference Rooms page for information on how to reserve a space.

Resources for Educators

MPL also serves the educators who work tirelessly to ensure the best possible education for their students. Let the library take some of the thinking out of your lesson planning this school year with the many educational resources available for school and childcare teachers.

Should you find yourself in need of books or movies that aren’t available in your school’s collection, visit the library to check out materials for all your lesson planning and story time needs. While you’re visiting, apply for a Teacher Card. With this unique card, school-related materials can be checked out throughout the current school year. It also allows access to the list of digital education resources found on our LibraryNow page.

Finally, Book a Class Visit and plan a field trip to your local library branch, or request a librarian to come to your school. Choose from a variety of visit types, including Makerspaces visits, story times, or just stop in for informational or exploratory visits.

As you can see, at MPL, we are committed to helping you read, learn and connect, not only during the summer, but all year round.