Libraries offer a helping hand with homework

Youngsters will get a helping hand with their homework – thanks to Cheshire East Council’s library staff.

Students who need support with researching an essay or project, or are looking for books and online resources to aid their studies, can pop into their local Cheshire East library during Help With Homework Week, which runs from October 17 to 21.

Between 3pm and 4.30pm (on these days), staff will be on hand to help show students where to look for books and how to use online reference resources. Specialist librarians will also be available to answer questions via the live online ‘Ask a Librarian’ service.

And there is even the chance for under-16s to enter a quiz and win a prize.

Councillor David Brown, Cabinet member with responsibility for performance and capacity, said: “Our libraries are a fantastic resource and this is an excellent opportunity for youngsters to learn how to get the most out of their local library – and get help with their homework into the bargain.

“It follows on from our libraries’ excellent work during National Bookstart Week, in June, to promote reading and the use of libraries’ extensive book and online facilities, and also the Summer Reading Challenge, which encouraged children to develop a passion for reading.

“We at Cheshire East Council understand that libraries, with their superb resources and their marvellous staff, play a vital role in improving life opportunities for our residents. Our libraries continue to offer a top-quality service to the people of Cheshire East.”

Even if you cannot get to a library our staff can still help. People can ‘talk’ to a specialist librarian using the live Online Enquiry Service – just look for the chat box at the foot of the libraries’ homepage at:

http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/leisure,_culture_and_tourism/libraries.aspx

You can also use the Virtual Reference Library to search the Encyclopaedia Britannica and many other superb reference works from any computer with internet access. All you need is your library membership number.

All libraries are happy to offer class visits throughout the year to introduce pupils to the library service and all it can offer.

To enter the under-16s prize quiz, download the questions on Cheshire East Council’s libraries homepage and hand your completed entry in to any Cheshire East library by Saturday, October 29, 2011.