Resources for Educators: Learn to Use the Library

Supplemental resources for teachers, parents, and other caregivers

Teacher Resources

Welcome Teachers!

We are here to support you! Please find instructional videos and other pertinent library information. Not finding what you need? Contact us and let us know. 

 

Instructional Videos for Elementary (click tabs for more)

Kids Research: Captain Catalog from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Watch all 3 Videos by clicking the tabs above

  1. Captain Catalog: Learn how to use the catalog to search for a book
  2. Super 3: Learn how to get ready to do research for a school project
  3. Virtual Tutoring with Brainfuse: Learn how to use our virtual tutoring service.

Kids Research: Super 3 from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

How to Use Brainfuse from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

APL Instructional Videos for Teens

Find the one book you need (instead of 9,000 you don't)

Study Hacks: Advanced Searching from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Watch More Tips by clicking the tabs above

  1. Advanced Searching: Learn how to use the catalog to search for a book
  2. Databases 101: Learn how to get ready to do research for a school project
  3. The Big 6: The six steps to success on your next research project
  4. Virtual Tutoring & Writing Lab: Learn how to use BrainFuse for free tutoring daily 2-11 PM
  5. Virtual Library: How to access eBooks, eComics, Streaming movies and more!
  6. Faster eBooks: Long holds list got you down? Here are some hacks to get to the front of the line faster!
  7. eBook Etiquette: How to make wait times shorter for everyone
  8. eBook Holds: How to place a hold on Libby
  9. Creating a Schedule: learn this high school senior's tips for keeping on schedule
  10. Organized Notetaking: tips from a high school senior about keeping things organized
Teachers: Book-A-Librarian for a virtual class visit!

Got a Research Project? Databases are your new BFF.

Study Hacks: Library Databases from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Research project got you down? The Big Six can save you.

Study Hacks: The Big 6 from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Big 6 Research Planning Worksheet [PDF Download]

Study Hacks: Free Virtual Tutoring and Writing Help with Brainfuse from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

It's way more than just eBooks...

How To Use the Virtual Library from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Study Hacks: Quick Tip Videos from Niche Academy from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Number 58 on the holds list? This hack can help you jump the line.

Virtual Library Hacks: How to get eBooks faster from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Oh, so that's why they ask you if you want to return your eBook early...

eBook Etiquette: Return Your eBooks Early from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

eBook checked out? Put a hold on it so you can get in line to read it next!

Virtual Library: Holds on Libby from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Study Hacks: Creating A Schedule from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Study Hacks: Organized Notetaking from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Book a Librarian

Reserve a free 30-minute virtual visit with a librarian. We’re available by phone, email, and virtual visit.

For Youth Groups & Educators

  • Virtual visit for your classroom or youth group (eg: storytime, finding a good book, research tips, brief learning activities)
  • Fun presentation: All the amazing things you can do with your youth library card
  • Curriculum / Assignment resource support

Group Cards

We are issuing cards again! Teachers and educators can get a card with an extended check out period. Please call Customer Service at 512-974-7475 if you need assistance.

Finding Books by Reading Level

Finding Books by Reading Level from Austin Public Library on Vimeo.

Did you know you can find the Lexile level of most books in our collection? 

You can also search for books in a Lexile Level reading range using the "Advanced Search" in the catalog, and scroll down and put the lexile range in the Reading Level boxes:

Personal Picks

Looking for another good book, but having trouble narrowing it down?

If so, let us tailor a custom list to your interests. Click the link and fill out the form. We will compile a recommended list and email it to you within a week. The more information you provide the better your recommendations will be! 

Personal Picks Request Form

eBooks for Students

eBooks in our library come from many different sources. In order to see availability across all apps, your best bet is to search our catalog (you can narrow results by eBook), and there you'll find out what books we have and where they are available -- often with much shorter wait times!