Virtual Libraries are Teaching Treasures

“As Woodruff has found, virtual libraries can be a teacher's greatest aid. They're convenient and current, they open the door to more resources than are locally available, and they appeal to tech-savvy kids” (Hillner, 2009, p1) Teachers and or students can access many library databases online by searching for digital books, e-books, podcasts, articles, music, books on tape, and many other forms of literacy. I personally use my local library’s website frequently. I have checked out e-books to read electronically and often request actual books to be sent to me. This makes the library more accessible for students. They can search online any day, any time. I think that teachers could use the podcasts with books on tape in the classroom with students. Using the podcasts would allow the students to hear fluent reading and just enjoy listening to stories. Virtual libraries also offer video clips and pictures that could supplement lessons. Students love using the computer and accessing the Internet, and I think that virtual libraries provide students with an educational experience with a variety of different forms of literacy to acess. I think that many students think that libraries are a dull and boring place full of old books, and a virtual library can offer them a variety of online technologies that may motivate them more. With the online resources, many students may not even realize that they are “reading” because they aren’t actually picking up a book. I think that virtual libraries are a good source to use in classrooms, and plan to continue using them as I plan my lessons.