As you get in gear for the new school year, know that the Free Library has your back! We, too, are gearing up for the homework, projects, and papers the school year brings—not to boost our own report card, but to help you make the grade.

What can we do to help?

For in-person homework help—and a great place to hang out after school—come on over to our Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP).  Offered at all neighborhood libraries and Parkway Central Monday–Thursday, and Tuesday–Friday in the three regional libraries, LEAP is open to all students grades K through 12.  The program provides homework help, computer and Wi-Fi access, and lively activities, all in the safety and comfort of our neighborhood libraries. Not a bad way to spend the post-school, pre-dinner hours.

For assistance around the clock, turn to Homework Help Online, powered by Brainfuse.  With the click of a mouse, you can get access to

• live tutoring in multiple subjects, available from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. everyday.  Help also available in Spanish.
• study tools like digital flashcards and subject-based games, through Flashbulb
• test prep—ACT, SAT, AP exams, and more—through SkillSurfer
• the Writing Lab, a feature that allows you to upload your essays or writing assignments for a Brainfuse tutor to proofread and critique. Tutors respond to requests sent to the Writing Lab within 24 hours.

And when you need a study break, don’t forget that the Library holds the keys to all your media needs—all for FREE.  Stop by your neighborhood library to pick up DVDs, or surf Hoopla, a digital platform that offers streaming movies, TV, music, and audiobooks for your PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone.  Work hard, then relax hard.

Your ticket to all these resources and tools is simply your Free Library card! That may just be the best back-to-school-deal around.

(Don’t have a Library card? Click here to sign up for one online, or stop by your neighborhood library with proof of current address to apply.)