Alamo City Moms Blog is thrilled to partner with the San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) to bring you information on their vast array of resources and programs for both children and adults of all ages.
With a good month of school behind us, our little family is happy to be back into a routine. Don’t get me wrong: summer living was fun, but we were all craving the order the school year brings. For many kids, advancing to the next grade level means a heavier load of homework, projects, and papers. My children are young, but I already find myself a bit confused by some of their assignments, and I know it’s only going to get tougher as they grow up. These long nights of homework woes (and sometimes tears) can easily lead to stress and frustration for children and parents alike. But, good news: the San Antonio Public Library has numerous resources that support education, literacy, and lifelong learning for all ages.
For example, Live Homework Help is an online program that links students to qualified, background-checked tutors for real-time coaching sessions. These tutors can assist in math, science, and English from fourth grade through introductory college courses, in either English or Spanish language. The mobile format allows users to access Live Homework Help from a smartphone or iPad. Live Homework Help is free to residents of Bexar County with a SAPL library card from 2:00 P.M. to midnight. Bookmark this one, moms! It can help relieve the homework blues your child is experiencing now or in the future.
If your student is writing a paper or preparing a presentation on a specific subject, have them reach out to a local librarian. Over 100 Master’s-level librarians are on staff with the SAPL, specializing in early literacy, technology, adult learning, workforce development, local history, and more. They are always willing to help your child find the resources he/she needs to become an expert in his/her subject.
Another great initiative for high school students is the Learning Express Library. This program offers study and prep guides to help students prepare for important tests like the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Cutting-edge technology is also available to this age group via a digital lab, recording studio, 3D printer, drones (yes, drones), and other cool robotics! The Library’s Teen Initiatives include programs in coding, S.T.E.M., music, gaming, and opportunities for collaborative learning and content creation.
If your children aren’t school-aged yet, wonderful early literacy programs, such as story times and play-and-learn workshops, are available. The Every Child Ready to Read and Little Read Wagon programs teach parents and caregivers simple but powerful ways to help children develop language and the skills they need to learn to read. I took advantage of several of these this summer to keep my kids engaged in reading.
Lastly, the Library supports lifelong learning through programs aimed at adults. These include resume building, job searching skills, ESL, and GED preparation. Or perhaps you simply want to learn a new craft? Check out their workshops, which cover topics such as cooking and health, cleaning green, DIY bath products, painting, science, and technology, among others.
There’s truly something for everyone at your local Public Library. All you need is a SAPL card to unlock a world of knowledge and resources for your family. Obtain a free card by visiting your local branch or the Central Library. I’ll see you at the Library!
Oh, in regards to that last comment, you can only get birth certificates for children born 2005- present in Bexar Co.
Don’t forget that you can pick up your child’s birth certificate at Thousand Oaks, Mission, Las Palmas, and Great Northwest branches!