Local libraries assist students on ‘Homework Help Day’
Libraries across Suffolk County took part in this year’s “Homework Help Day” on Monday in an effort to introduce students to the online interactive website known as Live-brary.com.
The online program, which is free to card holders at all North Fork libraries, includes free e-book and audio book downloads, as well as live tutoring and test preparation. There are also sections specifically designed for college students and adult education.
Denise DiPaolo, director of the Shelter Island Public Library, said “Homework Help Day” was launched to promote Live-brary.com, which launched last year.
“This starts the new school year off on the right foot,” Ms. DiPaolo said about the event. “[Live-brary.com] is intuitive, it’s interactive and I think parents like it because it’s free, especially in these hard economic times.”
Riverhead Public Library director Lisa Jacobs said while attendance for “Homework Help Day” was low at her library, she was still pleased that students came down to learn about the program.
“Getting the word out is what this event is all about,” she said, adding that there have been just 133 Homework Help sessions in Riverhead since the program was launched.
Ms. DiPaolo said once students become exposed to it they seem to have a positive reaction.
“Once we show students how to use it, they become hooked,” she said. “The online tutors won’t do their homework for them, but they do help them by teaching.”
Of the subjects Live-brary.com offers, Ms. DiPaolo said math is the most popular program, followed by science and foreign languages.
“It’s another way to provide education to our patrons,” she said. “There’s a lot happening in this little library.”
Live-brary.com tutors are available everyday from 2 to 11 p.m.