PA Online Learning

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Would you love to be able to offer a class on how to use social media, Google Maps or just computer basics but don’t have the staff or the time? PA Online Learning may be able to help.

PA Online Learning is a FREE growing collection of tutorials from Power Library on how to use software, social media, and library resources, such as POWER Library.

There is also a Lunch and Learn collection featuring topics such as Solar Eclipses, Women in Punk, Goth Music and much more.

It’s a great learning tool for us as well as our patrons so be sure to check it out!

Tracy – Monroeville Public Library

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Libby: Advanced Skills

Level up your Libby game and impress your patrons with these cool features.

Do you (or your readers) have a tall TBR pile? If so, you can tag a book to come back to later with the tag icon found below the Read Sample/Play Sample option. A menu will appear, and you can select which list you would like the book to be added to. You can also create a new tag by scrolling to the bottom and clicking Create Tag. Patrons can navigate back to these lists by tapping the Tag icon on the bottom dock of the app.

Maybe your patrons need a little extra time to savor their check out. Did you know that renewals are a possibility in Libby? Like physical books, if no one is waiting on the title, the option to renew will appear a few days before the item’s due date. However, the item will not be auto renewed. Patrons must navigate to their shelves, click Loans, Manage Loans, and Renew Loan. If it is possible to renew the item, they will be able to click and do so. If there is a hold, they will be prompted with a hold button instead. The app will also let them know if it is too early to renew the item.

One last feature to highlight is the Timeline feature. Many readers like to keep track of the titles that they’ve read. Libby offers a version of this through the Timeline. Found by clicking on the Shelf on the bottom dock, the Timeline keeps track of books that are borrowed by year. Patrons have the option of removing titles by swiping left, which could be handy in the case of DNF reads.

So that’s it! Dazzle your patrons and fellow staff with your Libby skills and have an amazing day!

-Erin, Bridgeville Public Library

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Snow = Car Trouble = Auto Repair Source

Let’s be honest the weather lately has left much to be desired – in the Pittsburgh area when it snows you will inevitably need to repair your car. It is the law of the cosmos or something. Fear not though because we have a great resource to help you and your car get through this wintery season – Auto Repair Source! Simply log into Auto Repair Source with your library card number, and the world of car repair and maintenance is right at your fingertips. You will need to enter the appropriate year, make, model, and engine information to get to the pages you need but I believe in you! You can make this repair happen (I hope)!

Ugh.. winter why?

Okay I get it – you looked at the specs and it is all another language to you. No judgement and no worries! Auto Repair Source also offers parts and labor estimates. And don’t worry if the mechanic is speaking another language too you can pull up diagrams and image that you can zoom in on and also print if you need. Winter won’t win this one – the library has you and your car’s back!

~Winter Has Come, But Not Won~

-Adrianne, Northland Public Library

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Help Your Patrons Discover the World with Mango Languages

As library staff, we’re always looking for fun, engaging resources to share with our communities—and Mango Languages is a real gem! This easy-to-use language-learning platform offers practical, cultural, and conversational tools for patrons of all ages and interests.

What’s Mango Languages All About?

Mango Languages is a free online language-learning resource available to your patrons through the library. It offers over 70 languages (including English courses for non-native speakers) and focuses on real-world conversation skills, cultural insights, and practical applications.

Why Mango Languages is a Game-Changer for Your Library

  • Something for Everyone: Mango works for beginners and advanced learners alike. Whether patrons want to travel, advance their careers, or learn for fun, Mango has them covered.
  • Cultural Insights: The lessons include tips on cultural norms and nuances, helping patrons communicate respectfully and effectively.
  • Learn Anywhere: Mango is available on both desktop and mobile devices, so patrons can learn on their own schedule, wherever they are.
  • Keeps People Coming Back: The interactive lessons and personalized learning paths make it easy to stay motivated and engaged.

Easy Ways to Share Mango with Your Community

Here are some ideas to help get the word out and make Mango a hit with your patrons:

  1. Include It in Outreach: Highlight Mango in newsletters, social media posts, and any presentations or talks you give. It’s a great resource to showcase during cultural events, travel-themed programs, or job readiness workshops.
  2. Make It Part of Programs: Think about hosting “Language Learning Clubs” or drop-in sessions to help patrons get started with Mango. A weekly “French Conversation Hour” or “Spanish Basics for Travelers” could spark a lot of interest!
  3. Get Staff On Board: Make sure your team knows how Mango works so they can recommend it confidently. Bonus: Encourage staff to try it themselves—it’s fun and great for professional development!
  4. Promote the Mobile App: A lot of patrons love learning on the go. Let them know they can download the Mango app and sync it with their library account.

How Mango Makes a Difference in Your Community

  • For Non-Native English Speakers: Mango’s ESL courses help build language skills and confidence, creating a more welcoming community.
  • For Travelers: Mango is perfect for learning key phrases before an international trip.
  • For Students: It’s a great way for students to boost their language classes or explore something new.
  • For Professionals: Mango can help patrons level up their careers by adding a new language to their skill set.

Let’s Make Mango a Hit!

Mango Languages is more than just a learning platform—it’s a way to help patrons explore, connect, and grow. By spreading the word and weaving it into your programming, you can give your community a resource that opens doors to new cultures and opportunities.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Gabi -Robinson library

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