The Jefferson Public Library offers support and enrichment for homeschooling families and others engaged in non-traditional learning with children ages 0 - 18 by providing access to several educational and recreational online resources, as well as a robust collection of books, literacy kits, other items and programming for all ages. Explore the opportunities our library can provide your family!
Resources in Your Library
In our library, you'll find literacy kits, support titles for parents, nonfiction titles for youth, and tablets and computers for in-library use. We also provide office equipment, including printers, a photo copier, and services such as exam proctoring and research assistance.
Homeschool educators can also reserve our meeting room for co-op meetings, get-togethers, and programs.
For Homeschool Educators
Did you know? You're eligible for a homeschool educator card at your public library. Check out books and other relevant materials for your lessons on this designated educator card. Ask us about extended check-out periods and read more about the different kinds of library cards here.
Not sure where to start? Check out our suggested in-library titles and websites for homeschool education assistance below.
Suggested Books & Websites for Educators
Books are labelled by their location and Dewey Decimal number where applicable. Books can be placed on hold or reserved online through your library account.
- An inclusive homeschooling site offering homeschool help and information like podcasts, articles, and other free resources.
- CouponFollow
- Free homeschool resources and lesson plans for all ages.
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This site features resources, events, and FAQs covering home instruction, individualized plans, evaluations, suggested strategies, and more.
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This site includes information about many topics including ordering free curriculum, online unit plans, lesson plans, and worksheets, as well as information on supplementing or creating a homeschool curriculum.
This guide to online homeschooling provides resources for students and families considering homeschooling, building a curriculum and philosophy, and transitioning to college as a homeschooled student.
National Home Education Research Institute
Homeschool research, facts, statistics, scholarly articles, and information on a national level.
Iowa Homeschooling Regulations
Learn and keep up to date on Iowa regulations.
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This site offers a step-by-step, grade-by-grade, subject-by-subject guide to the classical pattern of education called the trivium.
Digital Education Resources
We offer free, well-established academic resources on a variety of subjects. Some resources require a Jefferson Public Library card. Please visit our Digital Resources page for a complete list of electronic resources.
All Subjects
Smithsonian
Explore "extensive collections and the research that enriches them are available online, spanning a wide spectrum of topics—from art to zoology".
Reading
Prodigy
Practice standards-aligned skills in math and English with fun, adaptive learning games.
Storyline Online
This two-time Emmy-nominated program features actors reading children's books to inspire a love of reading
Math & Science
Code.org
Explore, teach, and support with curriculum that makes computer science education fun and accessible for all ages
Explore.org
Watch live cam feed of animals at national parks, zoos, conservatories, and more
Art & Music
Learn Languages
Media Literacy & Digital Citizenship
