Bellingham Library Resources of the Month – Online Courses/Tutoring
Need homework assistance? Would you like to learn a new language? How about cake decorating or digital photography? The library gives patrons access to a variety of online courses and tutoring help free-of-charge with just your Bellingham Library card!
Before paying for a tutor, try out the library’s subscription to Brainfuse/HelpNow, an online tutoring database. It provides live tutoring services for students of all ages and levels, including adults, with a wide range of academic needs - whether it’s tackling a tough homework problem, mastering a particular topic, or writing a paper. Online tutors are available every day from 2 pm to 11 pm EST. Homework help is available in subjects such as math, science, reading/writing, social studies, as well as the PSAT/SAT, ACT, AP and state standardized tests.
MassLINKS Online Academy is a free Massachusetts statewide adult education program. Students can choose from High School Equivalency (GED or HiSet) preparation classes or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL/ESL) classes. Classes are offered fully online with evening and morning options to help you work around your schedule.
There are three online databases to help you learn a new language: Transparent Language, Mango Languages, and Lingo LITE. The library also has a number of language learning books in print, as well as CDs, Playaways, and computer software that can be checked out with your library card.
Transparent Language Online provides lessons and language learning for over 110 languages, including English as a Second Language (ESL) and American Sign Language. Interactive learning activities encourage learners to practice listening, speaking, reading, and typing. There is also a section called KidSpeak for young learners of certain languages, which includes fun and engaging activities for children.
Mango Languages contains over 70 world language courses to choose from. Each lesson combines real-life situations and audio from native speakers with simple, clear instructions. The courses are presented with an appreciation for cultural nuance and real-world application.
Lingo LITE is an image and video-based foreign language learning tool for 260 of the most basic words and terms in 30 languages. It uses Associative Multimedia Learning to help the user associate an image with the correct foreign word without first translating it into their native language.
Universal Class offers hundreds of online continuing education classes facilitated by dedicated instructors sharing their knowledge on almost any imaginable topic. There are lessons on topics from Accounting to Yoga and just about everything in between! Although these courses are designed for adults, many of them are appropriate for a variety of ages and there is a category of courses for homeschoolers.
The Great Courses includes over 250 unique courses to capture your curiosity or improve in areas you are passionate about. Courses are taught by award-winning, trusted experts in their fields. A broad range of subjects are covered, including science, mathematics, philosophy, history, literature, fine arts and music, travel, business, and personal development.
Craftsy is an online resource for all creative makers, where you can find everything you need – from basic instructions to advanced techniques. From quilters to sewers, to cake decorators to painters, if you want to create beautiful things and express your creativity, this is a great resource for you!
Driving Test Tutorial contains the Registry of Motor Vehicles driver’s license manual you need to study as well as practice tests to help you prepare for your learner’s permit. The database also has the official CDL Handbook and the MA Motorcycle Handbook, as well as practice tests for CDL exams and motorcycle learner’s permit.
Niche Academy contains tutorials on how to use many of the Bellingham Library’s online resources. There are also tutorials on popular websites such as Facebook, Gmail, Instagram, Pinterest, and X.
To access these online resources, go to the Bellingham Public Library’s website at www.bellinghamlibrary.org. Click on the Resources tab, and then click Online Courses/Tutoring.
