World Teachers’ Day, celebrated Oct. 5, is a moment to recognize the amazing work educators do every day. Johnson County Library offers teachers, childcare providers and homeschool educators a range of free tools, materials and services that make learning more accessible and engaging.
Start with an Educator Card
The Library’s Educator Card is available to educators who teach in Johnson County. The card provides enhanced borrowing privileges for materials used for educational purposes, including a five-week checkout period for physical materials and three weeks for eLibrary items. Eligible materials can be renewed up to five times, unless another person has placed a hold.
Educator Cards are issued to individuals rather than schools or agencies and are valid for one year. To apply, educators complete an application, provide a physical photo ID and verify their address.
Resources for every learner
The Library offers a wide selection of digital resources that can enrich lessons and curiosity.
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Brainfuse HelpNow provides 24/7 live tutoring, writing feedback, test preparation and other study tools.
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Britannica School offers encyclopedia articles at reading levels tailored to elementary, middle and high school students.
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Libby gives access to eBooks, eAudiobooks and
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Lightbox features interactive nonfiction books for students in grades K-12.
Younger learners can explore resources such as BookFlix, which pairs video storybooks with related nonfiction eBooks, and Kanopy Kids, a collection of educational and entertaining videos. 6 by 6: Ready to Read provides early literacy resources for families and educators working with young children.
For teens, the Library offers research and current-events resources, including Issues & Controversies, the National Geographic Virtual Library and access to Kansas City and regional newspapers. These support research projects, classroom discussions and independent learning.
Tools for teachers
The Library can also help with the practical side of teaching. Cardholders receive up to $1.50 in free printing each day. ScanEZ stations at every location allow users to scan documents to a USB drive or email, copy materials and work with both single and multi-page documents.
Free study, conference and meeting rooms provide additional space for studying, gathering or educational activities. Educators and students can also use Library computers, Wi-Fi and technology and equipment at Library locations.
For hands-on learning, the Black & Veatch MakerSpace has tools including 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, electronics equipment and more, along with classes that introduce new skills. These resources can be useful for educators developing classroom projects or students turning an idea into something tangible.
Explore more ways the Library can support educators throughout the school year at jocolibrary.org.
