Tips & Tricks for ACLA Databases and Downloadables

Research with POWER Library

School is back in session, which for many students means homework. The library is here to help with resources like POWER Library. Free to anyone with a Pennsylvania library card, POWER Library offers access to many databases on various subjects.

Helping students navigate a research project and look for information? Check out the Gale research databases! There are ones specifically for elementary, middle, and high school students.

Students can find anything ranging from articles, to images, to videos for their projects. In addition to being able to print and email content, the databases will also show students how to cite their resources.

Be sure to explore what else POWER Library has to offer.

-Erin Weaver, Bridgeville Public Library

Continue ReadingResearch with POWER Library

Learning with Udemy

Read more about the article Learning with Udemy

Learning never stops when you sign up for Udemy, an online learning platform with thousands of courses available to Allegheny County library card holders! In lessons taught by real-world experts you can learn at your own pace on your own time. Brush up on business skills, learn how to play the guitar, master a new programming language, or take some time for self-improvement.

With courses available along a broad range of interests there’s something for everyone on Udemy. Your personal Udemy account keeps track of all your courses and you’ll even get a certificate of completion when you’re done! Access Udemy through the county eLibrary and expand your knowledge today!

-Adrianne, Northland Library

Continue ReadingLearning with Udemy

Don’t Get the Back to School Blues!

Heading back to school stirs up a cocktail of feelings. Parents juggle excitement and a sprinkle of sorrow, while kids ride the nerve-wracking wave of farewelling summer.

Navigating this whirlwind of emotions with our young bookworms can be a tough gig, but fear not – Libby rides in to the rescue with a treasure trove of resources.

From cozy eBooks to soothing audiobooks and handy books on taming those anxious butterflies, there’s a little something for everyone to add to their emotional toolbelt.

With these tools in hand, families can transform the back-to-school frenzy into a joyous adventure, packed with growth and fresh beginnings. So, buckle up and thrive through the bumpy ride with a dash of help from your trusty neighborhood library and Libby!

Gabi – Robinson Library

Continue ReadingDon’t Get the Back to School Blues!

Reminder: Libby and Hoopla Changes Coming September 1!

What’s happening?

The Libby and Hoopla changes are going into effect Sunday, September 1, 2024 for all Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County libraries. To recap, the following changes will take place:

  • Reduce Libby holds from 20 to 10 at a time
  • Reduce Libby borrows from 20 to 10 at a time 
  • Reduce hoopla borrows from 15 to 5 per month  
  • Require PIN authentication to the Libby sign-in process

Is there an in-depth explanation available for me to read or listen to?

A comprehensive explanation of these changes and the rationale behind these decisions can be found here.

We have a FAQ document for Staff to inform and equip you to address this topic when connecting with colleagues and patrons.

You can also check out the eChanges Drop-In Session Recording, which provides helpful insight and tips for navigating these changes.

How can I prepare my patrons for these changes?

In addition to being prepared to discuss these changes, you can provide your patrons with the handy eChanges Public Brochure and eTips updated informational handouts.

An extra tip: when you create or update library cards for patrons moving forward, make sure you mention the importance of adding a PIN. It allows them to access eResources and secures their account.

– Derek, South Park Township Library

Continue ReadingReminder: Libby and Hoopla Changes Coming September 1!