Caden Josey dissects a bird pellet during a recent Celebrating Birds program presented by wildlife rehabilitator Maria Waltz at the North Webster Library.

NORTH WEBSTER —Area schools will be starting soon. It’s important to remember one of the most important school supply of all is a library card. Libraries are a valuable free resource and play an important role in a child’s education whether they attend public, private, or home school. Studies show that children who are read to at home and who frequent libraries perform better in school and are likely to develop a habit of life-long learning.

The North Webster Community Public Library offers many resources to help students throughout the school year including use of computers, printers, and free internet access. The library staff can assist students with research, help them navigate a variety of databases, and utilize research tools and other digital content. The Youth Resources page of the library’s website has a Homework Help section where students can get help with homework and improve their skills in grammar, math, history, and science. Links to kid-friendly search websites allow for worry-free searching while allowing them to find the information they need.

Teens will find college and career links to assist them in planning career paths and exploring post-secondary education options. Practice tests for ACT and SAT college entrance exams can also be found online by accessing the Indiana State Library’s Inspire databases and clicking on the Testing and Education Reference Center.

The library staff is always available to help students and parents in finding resources to meet their needs. Adults unfamiliar with today’s emerging technology can book a private 45-minute session with a library clerk to learn how to use the internet, use an e-reader, set-up an e-mail account, use social media, access and navigate library databases, and other assistance. Just contact the Circulation Desk to schedule an appointment.

Today’s libraries are much more than just books. They provide a diversity of resources and free access to informational technology to people of all ages and backgrounds along with the knowledgeable guidance of a trained staff.