Resources for Teachers at the Library

Published on March 12, 2024

A woman helps three small children as they play with wooden blocks.

By Tricia B.

When you think about using the library, you probably think of books. The library offers many resources for educators besides access to books, including research databases, apps that teach languages, kits that help children work on specific skills, and more. 

Do you have students struggling to focus or finish a book? Libby and hoopla are great options to download audiobooks. Listening to books expands vocabulary and is a great way to get reluctant readers excited about literature. 

Are you an educator for young children? Siouxland Stories to Go kits can make storytime more engaging. The library also has Discovery Kits that feature different learning activities, including robotics and microscopes. Reading kits are also a great option for helping children who are beginning to read develop fluency and increase comprehension. 

Did you know that you can check out toys and board games from the library? The Toy Lending Library, an organization that provides families and groups with free toys to borrow from Siouxland Libraries. There are toys available for a variety of ages and developmental levels.  

Want the library to come to you? Our bookmobile stops at rural schools and childcare facilities in the area. 

Do you want to introduce the class to a new language? With your Siouxland Libraries card, you have access to Mango (for free!) to begin learning new languages. 

Worried about your students falling into the summer slide? Encourage them to sign up for the library’s Summer Reading Program and participate in Reading Bridge, a free tutoring program for kids. Sign up to receive an email when details about these are announced! 

The library is, and will always be, a great option for books, but it offers so much more.