Educators

Bloomington Public Library and Normal Public Library partner with District 87 and Unit 5 to provide a Student Library Account to any student who does not already possess an existing library account. Student Accounts allow check out of up to three physical items from the library, access to all the library’s online resources, and use of the teenZone for those in Grades 6-12. Any Student Account can be upgraded to a full-access Library Card if the student’s parent or guardian visits the Library with the student and proof of their current Bloomington address.

Educators are welcome to bring their classes to the Children’s Department. During these visits, librarians can give a tour, provide instruction about library services, and even present a story time or book talk. Visits must be scheduled in advance by contacting the Children’s Department. To make an appointment call 309.828.6091 or email childreference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

Library staff routinely visit area schools to provide presentations about the library, offer story times, and promote the annual Summer Reading Program. Inviting staff to visit your school is a great way to connect students with fun reading resources and encourage young scholars to become lifelong readers. Staff visits are also available during teacher institute day trainings. Visits must be scheduled in advance by contacting the Children’s Department; call 309.828.6091 or email childreference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

Teachers seeking materials for a specific topic can request that the librarians gather these items in advance of the teacher visiting the library to pick them up.

Teachers can submit lists of desired materials or topics online by completing the Teacher Pack request form.

Once you’ve submitted a request, please give us three days to collect the items. Our staff will notify you when your pack is ready and will return the materials to the shelf if the pack hasn’t been picked up within seven days.