Whether your child has just started ‘big school’ or doing their HSC, Central Coast Council Library Service has the resources to help students excel in 2018.

Council Unit Manager Libraries, Ms Michelle Swan-Beardmore, is encouraging parents of young children to take advantage of the range of electronic educational resources available.

“We have a suite of online programs available to introduce children to learning in an interactive and enjoyable way,” Ms Swan-Beardmore said.

“With coding so prevalent these days we have introduced Rainforest Coding, where children as young as five are introduced to the programming language ‘Scratch’.

“Those six to 10 years struggling with their maths will benefit from 10 Monkeys, our new learning tool where they will learn basic skills in a fun game like environment.

“To assist with literacy development children can enter the vibrant and interactive online ‘reading room’ of Story Box Library.

“Here children can connect, engage and be inspired by a diverse range of Australian storytellers, with access to activity ideas to help make reading fun.

“All you need to access any of these great resources is your membership number!”

Ms Swan-Beardmore added there was also an array of in house and online resources to assist older students.

“Our most popular homework help tool for students in years 3-12 would have to be the amazing online resource Studiosity,” Ms Swan-Beardmore said.

“With just a click of a button, students are connected to professional tutors who offer real-time assistance with homework, assignments, essays, study skills and more.

“The best thing about it is students aren’t given the answer, but rather the tools to figure out the answer themselves, developing their problem solving skills and helping to reinforce what they have learnt.

“Studiosity also provide a free writing feedback service where students can upload draft essays and reports to obtain expert advice to help maximise their marks.

“To help users get the most out of this fantastic program, Erina Library will be hosting a live demonstration for parents, carers, teachers and students Thursday 22 February, 5.30 until 6.30pm.”

Bookings are essential and can be made via centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/libraryevents

Studiosity guarantees a safe online learning environment for all students. Real-time assistance is available Sunday to Friday, 3pm to late, via centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/studiosity

“We also offer a collection of helpful online research databases available 24/7 that cover a wide range of topics including English, geography, history, science and more,” Ms Swan-Beardmore added.

“If you cannot find what you are after online we may just have a resource available in branch.

“Select branches have Personal Interest Projects to view, legal tool kit with easy to read guides, State Library drug info and more.

“If you are struggling to find what you need and are unable to get to a branch, simply send your questions to AskALibrarian@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au and our helpful staff will assist.”

To become a member and take advantage of these fantastic free library resources and more, go to centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/jointhelibrary