Library makes back to school easier

Add a Pierce County Library card to the back to school list and access the Pierce County Library System’s Tools for Students for free. With access to live tutors 24/7 and in-depth research and study tools, students will start the school year strong.

Tools for Students is a suite of online tools to help with reports, science experiments, world languages and more, and all of these services are available outside of the library.

“We know filling those back-to-school backpacks is costly. The Pierce Library has a no-cost array of services to support students all year and they can access them 24 hours a day,” said Pierce County Library Executive Director Gretchen Caserotti. “We're dedicated to help equip students with the tools they need to succeed, whether they access these resources in a library, at home or in school.”

Tools for students includes:

• Live tutors available 24/7, in English and Spanish.

• Research databases for world cultures, historical figures and science.

• Reference content such as newspaper and magazine articles and videos.

• Ideas for science fair projects, STEAM activities and science research.

• Practice tests and study guides for standardized tests.

• Tips to help complete financial aid applications.

• Learning assistance for more than 160 languages.

 In addition to these tools, many library locations have in-person classes and events to help get back into the swing of the school year including: 

• Intro to Homework Resources

Saturday, Sept. 28, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Bonney Lake Pierce County Library, 18501 90th St. E.

• Homeschool Meet-Ups

Thursday, Sept. 12, noon-1:30 p.m.

Summit Pierce County Library, 5107 112th St. E.

Thursday, Sept. 19, 10:15-11:15 a.m.

Sumner Pierce County Library, 1116 Fryar Ave.

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 1-2 p.m.

South Hill Pierce County Library, 15420 Meridian E.

The Pierce County Library has a vast supply of books and other materials to support students. Explore these materials and more at mypcls.org.