Library
Homeschool Resources
Welcome, we look forward to serving you at the St. Charles Public Library. The Library plays a very important and active role in encouraging and developing an interest in lifelong learning and literacy through our collection of materials, programs and services. We offer a number of services to families who homeschool.
Using the Library From Home
- Find reading suggestions
- Search our databases and find accurate information quickly instead of sifting through thousands (or millions) of results from a search engine.
- Questions? Call the Youth Services department! 630-584-9390; chat with us or text Youth Services at 630-686-7543 (630-686-7KID).
- Access the Library catalog and your account to check on due dates, renew materials, place titles on hold and pay fines.
Find information on services, programs and special events. Register online for events
Library Materials for Homeschooling
Beyond Books Collection
Beyond Books at the St. Charles Public Library is a collection of unique, non-book items, including educational and skill-building materials, that offer opportunities for learning, creating and finding inspiration.
STEAM Kits
These kits offer various STEAM activities, including robots, science experiments, anatomical models and math flashcards. Kits are labeled with appropriate age suggestions, starting at 3+.
Launchpads
The Library’s collection also houses a number of pre-loaded Launchpads that feature educational games. Games range from engineering and math activities to language learning to virtual science experiments and more.
Computers in Youth Services
Any student who visits the Library can use computers in Youth Services by either logging in with their library card or getting a guest pass from the Youth Services Desk.
Computer Capabilities
- Microsoft Office products: Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Publisher
- Internet access
- Database access without requiring a St Charles Library card number and PIN
Parents may also use the computers when their children are in the Youth Services department or attending programs, but will need to get a guest pass from the Youth Services desk.
Resources
The Library subscribes to two different live, virtual tutoring sites.
HelpNow from Brainfuse
This live tutoring service for students from Kindergarten to college is available every day from 2:00-11:00 p.m. Younger students can work with a tutor using illustrations and emerging-reader vocabulary. There is also a live language lab where students can work one-on-one with a Spanish-language tutor.
Note: HelpNow has 24-hour availability where students can access lessons, videos and practice tests. HelpNow can also be used to make flashcards, chart progress and meet with fellow students online to collaborate on assignments.
LearningExpress Library
This database provides skill-building resources for elementary school through adulthood, including ACT, SAT and AP Test prep.
A to Z Home’s Cool: Discusses various teaching methods and styles.
Home Educators Resource Directory: A directory of resources including curriculum and support groups with direct websites or email links.
Homeschool Base: A website featuring a collection of homeschooling resources, news, information, and blogs.
Homeschool Diner: At the Homeschool Diner, you’ll find a full menu of articles, curriculum ideas, links to online resources. You’ll also find helpful suggestions, friendly advice, and a little homeschool humor, on the side.
Homeschool Literature: A website featuring literature and stories about homeschoolers including book reviews, study guides and a book club.
Homeschool World: The official website of Practical Homeschooling Magazine. Includes links to study materials, curricula, special education and teaching aids.
Homeschooling Adventures: Features worksheets, lesson plans, activities, and laws related to homeschooling.
Homeschooling Legal Defense Association: Advocates for the rights of homeschoolers and the right of parents to direct their children’s education. Though a Christian organization, it works on behalf of both secular and religious homeschoolers.
National Parenting Education Network (NPEN): Looking to provide parents and families with information, resources, and support needed to provide a nurturing relationship and an optimal environment that will encourage their children’s health growth and development.
Wide Open School: Developed by Common Sense Media to help support families and educators during distance learning, Wide Open School offers free, high-quality learning activities.
Homeschooling in Illinois: Offers a variety of homeschooling resources and information specific to the state of Illinois. Has information about laws, teaching, support groups, and more.
Illinois HOUSE: Network of homeschool support groups whose purpose is to inform the homeschool community plus a field trip ideas page and homeschool supplier list.
Illinois State Board of Education: Find information on homeschooling in Illinois and a voluntary registration form.
Illinois Learning Standards & Instruction
Johnsburg Public Library Homeschool Resource Center: Located about an hour away, the Johnsburg Public Library has a Homeschool Resource Center which offers curriculum materials, science equipment, math manipulatives, educational games and kits, software and print materials that can be checked out with your St. Charles Library Card.
STAR Net-Region II: STAR NET is a Support and Technical Assistance Regional Network for early childhood educators and parents of children with special needs. They offer workshops and webinars for members of these communities.