As the summer fades away and many of us return to back-to-school routines, we at the Library are looking forward to partnering with you in the pursuit of learning and graduation. Read the success story of an adult learner and check the many resources for completing school assignments.

School assignments
For those in school, librarians at all locations will be happy to assist you in finding materials to complete your assignments. If you prefer one-to-one homework tutoring, there are experienced tutors at 10 locations or you can access online one-to-one tutoring. The LearningExpressLibrary allows you to practice a variety of academic and licensing tests, including elementary math skills, GED and college entrance exams.

KidLinks.org and TeenLinks.org also have links to relevant websites and resources for the different age groups.

The Teachers’ Toolbox at the bottom of our website is designed to help parents who homeschool and teaching professionals. Looking for academic articles on educational principles or best practices? Need to set up a library visit? Use the Toolbox to access numerous HCL resources.

Beyond classrooms
Learning, of course, happens beyond the classroom as well. There are many genealogy programs this fall to help you begin tracing your family history, learn what documents to use and where to access them, including how to get the most out of census records. Minneapolis Central will be holding an all-day Family History Fair on Nov. 3 where you can connect with genealogy experts and attend free workshops.

In this important election year, keep informed. Make use of our Politics & Elections Subject Guide to access national or Minnesota information on campaign finance, the politically connected, candidates, where to vote, etc.

Finally, I am excited about a new Library partnership with the University of Minnesota and Learning Dreams. This partnership combines the community network of Learning Dreams and the resources of HCL to help families find and achieve their passions in life. To see this in action first-hand, visit the exhibit at the Hennepin Gallery (A-Level of the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 South Sixth St., Minneapolis) during October.

Whatever your interest or passion, I am confident the Library can be a partner in your pursuit of lifelong learning.

See you online, in the community and in the library.

Lois Langer Thompson
Library Director