TCCL News & Events

Homeschool families are invited to “Help for Homeschool Families: Using the Library’s Website and Databases” at Central Library, Fourth Street and Denver Avenue, Feb. 7, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Join Central Library children’s associates Lin Arnett and Kathy Metzler for a hands-on demonstration of the library’s catalog and Web page for kids. They also will share information on how to access databases like Grizmek’s animal encyclopedia, the Gale science database and A to Z Maps.

“As a way to broaden the curricula, some databases have links to state syllabi, detailed information on current events and short biographies of influential people,” said Metzler. “We also will feature helpful sites for preparing lesson plans and creating assignments. The possibilities are endless for homeschool families looking to utilize the library to enhance learning.”

They also will share the library’s newest service for students, Homework Help Now! Homework Help Now! provides online access to expert instruction, peer-to-peer collaboration and self-study. The service is ideal for kindergarteners through adult learners. All you need is a library card to connect from home, school or any TCCL location.

Live tutors are available every day, 2-11 p.m. Central Standard Time, for one-on-one assistance in math, science, social studies, English, writing, reading comprehension, English literature and Spanish. Live sessions can be conducted in English or Spanish. Students also have 24-hour access to a test center offering practice tests for all grade levels in math, reading and writing, including the SAT, ACT and GED.

For more information on “Help for Homeschool Families: Using the Library’s Website and Databases,” call 918-549-7438, or visit the library website, www.tulsalibrary.org.

Tulsa City-County Library lost one its most ardent supporters with the passing of Walter H. Helmerich III.

Walt and his wife, Peggy V. Helmerich, through their belief in libraries and literacy, established the Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award in 1985. The annual award recognizes an author for his/her contribution to literature by presenting a public presentation at Central Library to share the power of words and ideas. The first award was a medal and a $5,000 honorarium. Today, it consists of an engraved crystal book and a $40,000 honorarium.

In addition to creating and funding the Distinguished Author Award, the Helmerichs also have funded the building of new libraries, and created special funding for teen programming and children’s materials.

In honor of Walt’s efforts to build a better community through libraries, the Tulsa Library Trust has established a fund in Mr. Helmerich’s memory.

Memorial gifts to the W.H. Helmerich Fund should be directed to the Tulsa Library Trust, 400 Civic Center, Tulsa, OK, 74103, or by visiting www.tulsalibrarytrust.org.