The Library has a wealth of resources to help you with your students. By working together the librarian and teacher can make sure the student has a positive and productive library visit.

What librarians can do:

Inform you of what resources the library offers. We may have more resources than you imagine -- or we may have fewer. It’s best to check before the assignment is given. Call the library, or check it yourself by using the library's catalog.

Reserve assignment materials for your students. If we have limited resources, we can reserve them for in-library use, ensuring access for all.

Assist students and teachers in using the library. We are always happy to help, and can be more helpful if we have prepared in advance. In addition to the books we can provide, we can show students web sites that will assist them with specific assignments.

Suggest alternate resources. Perhaps the library does not have every title on your required reading list, but working together we can come up with acceptable alternatives

What teachers can do:

Notify the library of assignments in advance. This will allow librarians to check resources and prepare for the necessary number of students.

Coordinate assignments with colleagues to stagger the demand for the same library materials by large numbers of students.

Invite the local librarian to the school's planning meetings, or appoint a member of the staff to communicate with the librarian on a regular basis.

Discuss research methods and possible sources with students. Let them know where you want them to start looking for information, but be sure to tell them what other resources are acceptable.

Be flexible in assigning subjects and with requirements for sources. If you assign a very specific topic, resource, or number of pages, please check to ensure availability. Your flexibility allows more students to succeed at their research.

Be aware of your students abilities and skills and be realistic about what you expect them to accomplish.

Give clear expectations for the assignment to students and librarians. Try to provide a written copy of the assignment to everyone concerned.

Encourage students to ask for help from library staff. We are here to help!

Group Visits

Classes and faculty are welcome to the library for an introductory visit or tour.

Programs for visits can be tailored to specific needs. Classes may view films, listen to stories, receive library skills instruction, and/or check out library materials. Faculty groups may request orientation tours or presentations on library resources.

Please telephone in advance to make an appointment. If your group cannot keep an appointment, please call and cancel. Time is reserved for your group, and the librarians spend time in preparation.

Please click on Group Visit Guidelines for more details

Student Showcase

The library welcomes items made by students. Ask the Youth Services Librarian for information about displaying student work.

Recommended Web Resources For Teachers

Ben's Guide to U.S. Government for Kids

A library of Blue Ribbon learning sites on the Web is here.

Busy Teachers Website

This site provides teachers with direct source materials, lesson plans and classroom activities with a minimum of site-to-site linking, and provides an enjoyable and rewarding experience for the teacher who is learning to use the Internet.

Cheerios Family Fun

Cheerios' Spoonful of Stories is a program designed to encourage children to read. The site includes tips on how to read aloud and ways to ensure children will become readers, as well as links to recommended books and online reading games and activities.

Chico High School Recommended Bookmarks

Created and maintained by the Chico High School Library staff to support the curriculum, this site provides access to current and appropriate information resources for students and teachers.

Early Child Care and Education, Long Beach

Maintained by the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, this easy to use site includes everything from links to craft and program ideas to the text of City reports and studies on early child care and education to guidance on opening a licensed child care program.

Children's Literature Web Guide

This site provides Internet resources related to books for children and young adults.

Disney

Here is information on Disney movies, videos, music and more.

Early Childhood Today

Early Childhood Today, published eight times yearly, offers early childhood teachers and child care center directors teaching tips, curriculum activities, management strategies, technology updates, advice, and more — all provided by leading experts.

Internet Public Library

This site offers a full service children's department, including an "Ask a Question" reference section. Also features "Story Hour," booklists, and book reviews by kids for kids.

Kathy Schrock's Guide for Education

Kathy Schrock offers a categorized list of sites useful to teachers for enhancing curriculum and professional growth.

Math Forum

This is an online Math Education Community Center. The Center's goal is to build an online community of teachers, students, researchers, parents, educators, and citizens at all levels who have an interest in math and math education.

Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood

Mr. Rogers delivers activities, advice to parents and a wonderful section on children's books tied to specific program themes, all in his own style.

PBS Teacher Source

This site contains more than 1,400 lesson plans and activities. A great place for teachers to get ideas.

Perpetual Pre-school

Containing online courses, learning center ideas, teaching tips, and more, thi is a great resource for pre-school teachers.