Online Library Resources for Kids
By: Christina Shields
You’ve just been assigned a research report for school and you cannot find any books on your topic! Don’t forget to check out the library’s awesome databases and non-fiction eBooks! Many topics that may be difficult to find in print can often be found online. Before you go straight to Google, consider the library’s online resources. Every day, more and more people, companies, etc. are adding to online content, making it increasingly difficult to sort out reliable and correct information. While there are certainly tips for finding reputable sources on the web for factual information, (such as looking for sites with domains that end in .gov, .edu, .org, sites that list traceable references, creator(s), cross-checking resources, etc.), one may also take advantage of the educational and scholarly databases that the library subscribes to! We have databases and recommended websites linked on our website with tons of scholarly articles (peer reviewed and vetted by experts). You can find a list of all of the databases here (for all ages), or you can go directly to the databases geared for youth here. They may be accessed at the library or anywhere there is internet with your library card and PIN number (a few are only accessible at the library). You may also go to our home page, select “KIDS”, and then click on “Kid’s databases”.
Some of our databases geared for children include:
BOOKFLIX
BookFlix is a new online literacy resource that pairs classic video storybooks from Weston Woods with related nonfiction eBooks from Scholastic to build a love of reading and learning. The engaging way to link fact and fiction, BookFlix reinforces early reading skills and introduces children to a world of knowledge and exploration. To access, enter library card number.
INSPIRE
INSPIRE is supported by the Institute of Museums and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Indiana State Library. Visit the “Databases by Subject” pages to see Student Search K-6 and Student Search 6-12 databases.
KIDS INFOBITS
Kids InfoBits engages students with interesting facts about a subject, along with connections to current events, and includes books, magazines, news, and more than 13,000 images. To access, enter library card number.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS
Fun and substantive, National Geographic Kids will take kids on amazing adventures in science, nature, culture, archaeology, and space. Includes National Geographic Kids magazine 2009-present (3 month embargo), 200 National Geographic Kids books, and 500 kid-friendly, downloadable images. To access, enter library card number.
PEBBLEGO
PebbleGo, the award winning PreK-3 database for reading and research, introduces Earth and Space concepts to your early readers! Now your students can choose PebbleGo Animals or PebbleGo Earth and Space.
PEBBLEGO NEXT
PebbleGo Next contains content for students in grades 3-6, including articles and fast facts on all 50 states and articles on American Indian tribes and culture.
POWER KNOWLEDGE
PowerKnowledge is a content-driven, visually-stimulating, and media-rich online science resource specifically designed for learners in grades 3 to 6. Now researchers have access to modules on Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth and Space Science.
TRUEFLIX
TrueFlix is an online resource that combines award-winning True Books content with reading supports and a deep and diverse collection of related videos, images, Web links, and text. To access, enter library card number.
WORLD BOOK REFERENCE CENTER
Includes World Book Reference Center for advanced researchers, Info Finder for school-aged information seekers, World Book for Kids for younger children, World Book Discover for ESL and Adult Literacy students, World Book Dramatic Learning and World Book in Spanish. To access, enter library card number.
We also offer non-fiction and fiction books for kids through free library apps such as; Hoopla, Overdrive, and Libby, which you can find out more about here. If you ever get stuck, ask a librarian, we are happy to help! Happy searching!