Often our library users don’t realize the full extent of what they can access using their library card. Traditional checkouts of books and media are still huge and we do encourage everyone to still use our online catalog at www.neuselibrary.org to look for materials and check them out either in the library or by curbside. But in these times of social distancing we do want to ensure that everyone is aware of the services they can access through their home computer using their library card.

eBooks and eAudiobooks are another resource library users can use their library card to checkout. Our eBook circulations have grown rapidly over the last two years as more users have discovered how easy and convenient it is to use their library card to access these materials. If you want to get started you can download the Libby app (available in all device stores by searching for “Libby”) or going to e-inc.overdrive.com or nckids.overdrive.com for children’s materials. 

We also encourage our users, especially our younger users or anyone currently in school, to explore the resources available on NC LIVE. NC LIVE is a statewide consortium that allows public and academic libraries to pool resources to gain access to extremely valuable online tools and databases. NC LIVE makes changes to its resource list every three years, and they just introduced some new services at the beginning of this year.

Transparent Languages is a powerful tool for learning the conversational basics of a huge array of foreign languages. For those that previously used Mango Languages through NC LIVE, this resource offers many of the same incredible features for immersive language learning. Even more languages are available on Transparent, which currently offers introductory courses in over 100 languages, each featuring interactive lessons that allow you to practice your new vocabulary out loud. Transparent Languages also features learning that is targeted directly towards younger language learners, so if you have a child in your life who wants or needs to learn a second language, Transparent is the perfect resource for getting them started.

LearningExpress is another new NC LIVE resource, replacing the former Testing and Education Reference Center (TERC). This resource provides a number of tools for preparing for entrance exams or for college in general. Interactive tutorials are available for tests such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, and much more. There are also preparation tools available for career exams such as nursing, postal, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), cosmetology, and many more, as well as materials for preparing for the ASVAB or Officer Candidates Test for those interested in joining the military. LearningExpress also offers tutorials on a wide variety of general school subjects for all grade levels as well as tutorials for computer basics and Microsoft Office basics.

NC LIVE also offers access to a streaming video platform called Films on Demand. This service offers access to a variety of educational programming from popular providers such as HBO, PBS, and the BBC. As part of the recent changes, NC LIVE is now also offering Just for Kids, a thoroughly child-safe version of Films on Demand. Featuring popular favorites such as Arthur, Franklin the Turtle, Sesame Street, The Berenstain Bears, and much more, this new resource allows you to share a huge array of educational video content with children in your household using your library card.

All of these resources, and much more, can be accessed through our website at www.neuselibrary.org or directly at www.nclive.org and using your library card number to sign in. If you have questions about your library card account or any of these resources please give us a call at 252-527-7066, Ext. 134.

We hope that you will also take advantage of another opportunity that starts this week by joining the Neuse Regional Libraries’ Adult Winter Reading Program. The theme is Healthy Minds and Bodies. This six-week program will help warm up your mind and body throughout wintry January and February with fun and interactive activities. There are several opportunities to participate, including at-home activities, book discussions, and virtual and onsite programming as well as opportunities to win one of six grand prize drawings. For more information or to register, please call 252-527-7066, Ext. 134..