At the Library 11/11/21

At the Library
by Cary Ann Siegfried, Library Director

We have a wonderful library building here in Washington, but as it’s getting a little chillier out this month, this is a great time to talk about some of the resources that the Library provides that you don’t have to leave the comfort (and warmth) of your home to access.   

One of those helpful resources is Brainfuse, an online provider for homework help and tutoring, career services, veteran's support, and more. Users decide how they want to acquire a skill or grasp a concept, and Brainfuse gives them the tools to master it. The State Library contracts with Brainfuse to offer Iowa libraries access to the following online resources:

·         HelpNow offers homework assistance and live tutoring service for patrons of all ages and with multiple languages supported. In addition to live tutoring (in all subjects!), several other unique features are available including an online writing lab, a Foreign Language Center with a powerful vocabulary builder, a 24/7 Question Center providing explanations of concepts, an Adult Learning Center to meet the unique needs of adult learners, and SkillSurfer Learning Library with unlimited access to self-paced learning through lessons, video tutorials, and practice tests on a wide range of subjects.  For students wanting to take a break from homework, chess tutoring is also available!

·         JobNow is a one-of-a-kind career assistance center that covers all major aspects of job hunting.  This includes live job coaching (available daily from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. CST), resume resources including templates, samples, and more, and interview preparation and practice.  Adults can also build skills in the Adult Learning Center, by accessing the High School Equivalency test prep, US Citizenship test prep, Microsoft Office support, and more.

·         VetNow helps veterans and their families understand and apply for eligible benefits. Veterans can receive live support with a veteran navigator (available Monday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. CST) and other assistance navigating the VA and benefits veterans are eligible for from local, state, and federal programs, as well as help with transitioning to civilian employment and translating military skills for civilian jobs.

Patrons can access these services from the Library’s website after clicking the library’s Brainfuse link and creating an account. Once a patron selects a live service, an online whiteboard automatically launches and patrons are able to communicate in live, online sessions with expert tutors, job coaches or veteran navigators.  For more information or help accessing Brainfuse, please stop by or call the Library!