Youth Services at the UH Branch Library

Wow! Where did the summer go? The kids are already back in class and that makes me remember all the times when I was in school and struggled with my homework. I always wished that I had someone right there to help me. Hi, it’s Susan, your Youth Services Librarian at the University Heights Branch of the San Diego Public Library (SDPL), and I’d like to tell you about HelpNow, an online learning platform that has been connecting learners with experts for over 20 years. HelpNow serves grade levels K through college, and your SDPL card grants you free access! How does it work? Let’s say your 3rd grader is doing her math homework and gets stuck on a problem but won’t let YOU help.

Kids! Am I right? You can access HelpNow through the SDPL website and get connected to a tutor via a shared virtual whiteboard. Webcams are not used. Simply type the question in the chat box or draw it on the whiteboard with the tools provided and a real person will help you. They won’t do the homework FOR you, but they WILL help you. Expert tutors are available every day from 1 – 10pm PST. Back in the analog world at University Heights, we have fun events for the kiddos. On Wednesdays at 4:30pm there’s Pajama Signing Storytime with Miss Jennifer Duncan. Each event is infused with joy and American Sign Language to use with your baby, toddler, or preschooler. Did you know that sign language offers numerous benefits for children, including enhanced communication skills, cognitive development, and social-emotional growth? It can also help bridge communication gaps, reducing frustration (for all parties involved). Jammies are optional!

Also, join us for Let’s Play on Thursdays at 10am for storytelling, singing, and counting fun with bubbles. Lots of bubbles. And as a special treat, Write Out Loud (writeoutloudsd.com) presents Kamishibai Storybox Theatre every third Thursday; a Japanese storytelling tradition not to be missed! In addition, we have a variety of early learning worksheets for coloring, letter tracing, and cutting practice as well as crafts at our pint-sized activity table. So come on down to the University Heights Library or call us at (619) 692-4912, and let us help you get off to a good start this school year!

Susan Alden, Youth Services Librarian
University Heights Branch Library
San Diego Public Library
619-692-4912