Check It Out:

Oh no! You were just assigned a huge project by your teacher, or maybe your child just let you know about his or her big project — due tomorrow. Where do you even start?

The Newport Beach Public Library has many resources to help with just about any kind of school project.

Come in and speak with a librarian who will point you in the right direction, or use the library resources from home to access accurate, current and relevant information. How does this work? I’m so glad you asked.

The library pays money to subscribe to online databases, or collections of information. By using your library card you have access to this information.

So what exactly is a database if it’s not just something on the Internet? Isn’t it the same as using Google?

Actually, no: A database is a group of information that has been computerized to make it more accessible.

It’s like adding a computer to a filing cabinet for easy access to the information. Instead of finding all kinds of random websites on Google, the library databases will take you directly to reliable articles and information.

Even though database information is accessed through a computer, it is not considered an “Internet” source. There is a difference.

At one time the information found in a database was probably found in a book!

The following are just a few of the databases available through the Newport Beach Public Library.

Use these library resources to save you from homework burnout and stress:

 CultureGrams

When visiting our newest database, CultureGrams, you will find detailed information about hundreds of countries around the world, U.S. states, and Canadian provinces. The data included for each location include all the necessary maps, statistics and facts about the culture and place, plus fun facts like songs, recipes and photos. This is a great resource for all country and state reports.

 Biography Resource Center

This database contains just what the title implies, biographical information on famous people around the world. You can search for a specific person but you also have the option to search by occupation, category or source. Remember, this information happens to be electronic (on your computer) but most of the articles in this database come from books or magazines.

 Live Homework Help

Do you need extra help with an assignment? Log on to Live Homework Help to get help from a professional tutor! This service is free with your library card. Yes you heard that right — a free tutor. Tutors are certified to help with math, science, English and social studies for students in kindergarten and up to a college level. There are also helpful work sheets, study guides and more.

 World Book Kids

Who needs a whole encyclopedia set? With World Book Online, you have an encyclopedia at your fingertips. The kid version is geared specifically toward elementary school students with appropriate articles, images and even games. You can also access information not available in a book including videos and materials in Spanish.

These databases, plus many more, can be accessed from www.newportkids.org. All of this information is great for kids — but what about adults and teens?

Well, the library also has databases to help you write a perfect résumé, prepare for tests, watch your investments, look for that next thrilling read, and so much more!

Check out the list of resources just a mouse click away at www.newportbeachlibrary.org and follow the link to Articles and Databases.

Don’t wait.

Ask your favorite librarian which databases contain the information you need to succeed.

CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public Library. All titles may be reserved from home or office computers by accessing the catalog at www.newportbeachlibrary.org . For more information on the Central Library or any of the branches, please contact the Newport Beach Public Library at (949) 717-3800, option 2.