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If you’ve ever encountered a student in need of homework assistance or an adult expressing interest in returning to school, you’re likely aware of how frequently patrons could benefit from a bit of extra support. This is where Tutor.com steps in.

As a member of public library staff, you don’t need to be a platform expert to make a significant impact. A quick and friendly recommendation can effectively connect someone with the assistance they require.

What is Tutor.com?

Tutor.com is a complimentary online tutoring service that many public libraries provide to patrons with a library card. It links users with real, live tutors who can assist with a variety of subjects, including math, writing, science, and test preparation.

The Best Part?

• It’s accessible from home or in the library.
• Patrons can typically log in whenever they need help.

## How to Bring It Up in Conversation

You don’t need a formal pitch—just keep it casual and conversational. Here are some simple ways to introduce it:

• “If you ever need homework help, we actually have free online tutors available through the library.”
• “We offer a service that allows you to chat live with a tutor—it’s quite helpful for writing assignments.”
• “Students frequently use Tutor.com for last-minute homework inquiries.”

Think of it as planting a seed. Even if they don’t utilize it immediately, they’ll remember it’s available.

What Patrons Can Do with It

Tutor.com offers more than just homework assistance. Here are some notable features to mention:

• Live tutoring: Interact with a real person to solve problems together.
• Writing help: Upload a paper and receive feedback.
• Test prep: Practice for exams such as the SAT, ACT, or GED.
• **Quick questions:** Submit a question and receive an answer later.

Sometimes, individuals may not realize the library offers this type of assistance—so your suggestion can come as a delightful surprise.

A Quick Reminder

You don’t need to know every detail about Tutor.com. Simply being aware of its existence and feeling comfortable mentioning it can make a difference.

Ultimately, it’s one more way we support our community in learning, growing, and achieving their goals—and that’s the essence of public libraries.

Gabi – Robinson

As we prepare for the Hoopla Daily Spending Cap which starts on May 1, here are two resources for staff to review and have handy.

2026 Hoopla FAQs.docx​

​2026 Hoopla Talking Points.docx​

Next week libraries will receive information (blog posts for websites and a social media tool kit) to inform patrons. 

After the Daily Spending Cap has been in place, we will be reaching out to gather feedback on how the Spending Cap is impacting the patron experience. Please consider gathering the feedback as you’re hearing it so that you can share it with us.

Thank you for your continued support as we work through the ever changing and evolving world of eResources! Please reach out to Hilary Lewis with questions.

Especially with the Hoopla changes coming May 1…now’s the perfect time for a reminder to take advantage of “bonus borrows.” Bonus Borrows, which are available the last seven days of every month, are not impacted by the overall daily spending cap in Allegheny County and also do not count as part of the 5 borrow monthly limit per person. Titles include books, movies, and more, and there are quite a few to choose from. So regardless of whether you’ve reached your personal limit, or your library has reached its daily limit – there’ll be things to borrow on the last week of the month!

Bonus Borrows show up as a list on the main page of the app when they are launched. This month’s are available March 25-31.

-Heather Auman, Western Allegheny Community Library