Tips & Tricks for ACLA Databases and Downloadables

Training opportunity with Tutor.com University

Tutor.com is providing us with a new online training platform: Tutor.com University. 

This self-directed, interactive course is designed for any and all staff who work with students, adult learners, and job seekers. It guides staff through the patron experience within the platform and provides insights into engagement strategies, helpful tools, and more.  

If this sounds like it will be useful in your work, all you need to do is fill in this form! 

In the box for “library location,” please list your library’s name. For CLP, please enter your location as follows: CLP – [branch name]. In the box for “Consortium” please list ACLA. Select “No” under the question “Are you a program manager/admin for your Tutor.com Program?” 

Tutor.com processes these registration forms on the 15th and 30th of the month. Once you submit the form, Tutor.com will reach out with a link to set up your Tutor.com University account. You then have 30 days to complete the learning modules once you’ve started. You can click here to get started with the registration form.

If you think you might need extra time to complete the course, or if you have any other questions about Tutor.com University, reach out to Hilary Lewis or Mary Phillips.  

-Mary – Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh 

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Book Club Boost with Novelist

Book Clubs are one of the most popular programs that a library runs. My library (Monroeville Public Library) has eight! Plus we have several outside book clubs that use our meeting rooms, check out our book club kits to go and ask us for recommendations for the group.

When I ran a book club I often struggled with coming up with titles. One source I didn’t use, but wish I would have, is Novelist. Novelist not only helps you pick out new titles for your group, it also offers resources on how to run a book club, how to get your club out of a rut and most important of all, how to improve your groups dynamics.

To find this information in Novelist click on Quick Links across the top of the screen and then choose Book Club Resources.

Happy reading!

Tracy – Monroeville Public Library

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“Hoopla about Hoopla” training recording available!

Did you miss the recent hoopla training by the Digital Resources Committee? Take a look here at this short & sweet introduction for staff, all about hoopla. The original session description and the recording link are below.

DRC Training: Hoopla About Hoopla 
Recorded Thursday, April 3, 2025

Session Description: Hoopla – it’s not just that other eBook app besides Libby! With literally hundreds of thousands of audiobooks (its most used feature), graphic novels, music, movies, TV shows, magazines, and yes eBooks, it’s a gem of an online resource in its own right. Members of the Digital Resources Committee will present a quick refresher for library staff on Hoopla and all it has to offer. Even seasoned users can learn about lesser known features like Kids Mode and how to maximize your 5 checkout limit with Binge Passes.

– Heather Auman, Western Allegheny Community Library

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Make Job Hunting a Breeze

A common request in libraries is for referrals for job hunting resources. What is a useful resource for creating a resume? Where can patrons look for jobs? Does this cover letter look okay?

Fortunately, the library offers plenty of resources to choose from when helping patrons. To assist with resume and cover letter prep, you can refer patrons to the database tutor.com. It offers college and career resources, and can help patrons with cover letters, resumes, applications, interviews, and more. Users can also connect live with an expert for 1-on-1 help or drop off a resume or cover letter to receive expert feedback on their document.

tutor.com ask a tutor or drop of a question image

If a patron is looking for something else, try referring them to Pennsylvania Job Resources, created by POWER Library. This landing page features a number of helpful links, including PA CareerLink, a Resume Builder, and SkillUp PA. These sites contain job postings, information about applying for benefits, free online job skills trainings, and much more.

Pennsylvania Job Resources

Erin Weaver, Bridgeville Public Library

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