eBooks

POWER Library Has More Than You Think

Look I love Libby, let’s be clear about that, it is a brilliant resource for so many great reads. But I also have a confession to make… it doesn’t always have EVERYTHING I need. *GASP* I know. I will pause for you to compose yourself.

*DRAMATIC PAUSE FOR EFFECT*

BUT – just because Libby may not offer a book does not meant the library does not have it. We may OF COURSE have a physical copy (please come see us in person we miss you) but we may also have that eBook you need RIGHT NOW via one of the last places you may think to look. The State Library’s POWER Library!!!

POWER is a very underused brilliant offering that I have found often has those sneaky eBooks that Libby just does not offer. And it has an easy way to find all of their eBook offerings in one place!

I get it you are saying… surely you must be joking, Libby has everything I need!

Well, let me give you an example. I just bought a new house and I am looking for an easy to care for lawn. And do you know what one of the easiest to care for lawns is? Moss. Well, when I go to see about how to care for moss gardens this is what Libby had to say for itself.

Libby, sweetheart, no – not even remotely what I needed.

So, I went to the ever handy POWER Library E-Book Collection and did the same search and HUZZAH!

POWER, I appreciate you.

So, now all I had to do is click on the “Electronic Location” link and… TA-DA!

Okay, I know that doesn’t look very exciting but it is what I needed and was looking for – so it was a success!

What I am trying to say is that the library DOES have that eBook or resource you are looking for electronically it just may not always be on Libby. Give POWER a chance and see everything that the State has wonderfully bestowed upon us.

Drop us a message or shoot your message to the State librarians via POWER’s chat function, someone is always willing to help you find the resource you need even when it isn’t where you think.

-Adrianne, Northland Public Library

Continue ReadingPOWER Library Has More Than You Think

Scholastic BookFlix

Explore Scholastic BookFlix: An Entertaining and Educational Digital Resource for Young Readers

Are you in search of an enjoyable and educational tool to assist your child’s reading journey? Look no further than Scholastic BookFlix, an amazing digital platform made available through state funding!

Scholastic BookFlix is an online resource tailored for young readers, providing an exciting way to discover books and videos. Designed for children from preschool to grade 3, it combines classic children’s literature with captivating animated videos, helping early readers enhance their literacy skills while igniting their creativity.

What Can You Find on Scholastic BookFlix?

Featuring over 130 book pairs, Scholastic BookFlix explores a diverse array of topics that intrigue curious young minds. Each pair connects an illustrated children’s book with a corresponding educational video, covering areas such as:

  • Animals & Nature: Discover the wonders of wildlife and the environment.
  • History: Learn about historical events and notable figures.
  • Science: Delve into fascinating science facts and concepts.
  • Stories & Folklore: Enjoy timeless tales and fables from around the globe.
  • And much more!

Every book pair includes a range of interactive features, such as:

  • Read-Aloud: The “read-aloud” feature allows children to listen to the story while following along with highlighted text, helping enhance their reading abilities.
  • Quizzes: After reading, kids can assess their understanding and knowledge through engaging quizzes.
  • Additional Educational Resources: Each story comes with extra activities and materials to enrich learning and deepen engagement with the content.

Why Scholastic BookFlix is an Excellent Choice for Young Readers

  • Develops Early Literacy Skills: The combination of books and videos aids in comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary growth.
  • Interactive Learning: Features like read-aloud options and quizzes make the learning experience enjoyable.
  • Safe and Educational Content: Parents can feel confident knowing the material is suitable, educational, and entertaining.

24/7 Access: Enjoy BookFlix anytime, anywhere!

Gabi B. – Robinson Library

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Marketing Tools from hoopla

Looking for a way to share more library resources? hoopla makes it easy!

hoopla offers an abundance of marketing and outreach resources that make sharing the collections with library users simple. Visit the hoopla Resource Center to find lists of featured collections, digital and printable marketing assets and even suggested post content.

View the Editorial Calendar for tools pertaining to upcoming holidays and themes. Find more general marketing materials in the Marketing & Outreach portion of the site.

Use this chance to schedule some posts highlighting online collections during the holiday season!

Hanukkah for Kids

Don’t forget to check back throughout the year to discover more resources and collections to share!

Wishing you & yours a happy holiday!

– Richelle @ Sewickley Public Library

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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!