This column, featuring resources for students and lifelong learners, appeared in the Aug. 3, 2025, edition of the Omaha World-Herald (NE). It is also available at Omaha.com (opens in a new tab).
Omaha Public Library has resources for students heading back to school and lifelong learners
While summer is not yet over, you may already be looking ahead and making plans for the upcoming school year for yourself or your family. Whether you’re preparing to head into the classroom or just want to learn something new on your own, Omaha Public Library has a resource for you.
For the young learners
Starting preschool or kindergarten can be a nerve-wracking time for children and their caretakers. OPL librarians created a list of picture book and board book titles, opens a new window that can help everyone in the family feel at ease about the excitement that is the first day of school.
Recommended titles include “First Day, Hooray!”, opens a new window by June Sobel, a back-to-school picture book that helps build emotional literacy; “Great Big Schoolhouse,”, opens a new window a Richard Scarry classic that follows a journey on a school bus and into the classroom to celebrate learning; and “Hello Crayons! And Other School Friends”, opens a new window by Hannah Eliot, a board book that introduces various school supplies as friends that welcome little ones to the classroom.
From board books to tables, early learning comes in many forms. Turn screen time into a skill-building activity for early learners with your OPL library card by accessing online learning resources like the ABCmouse Early Learning Academy, opens a new window. With over 10,000 interactive learning activities, ABCmouse.com helps children ages 2-8+ learn the fundamentals of reading, math, beginning science, art, music and more.
For older children, teens and above
OPL offers access to several online resources that are useful for homework help, either by assisting students in finding facts and information or honing their skills with test prep resources.
Explora, opens a new window allows elementary and middle school students to browse for information by broad topic areas — animals, geography, science, language arts, etc. — or search by any topic for full-text popular magazine articles, encyclopedia entries and other resources.
The Biography Reference Bank, opens a new window contains articles and news about leaders, inventors, athletes, writers, scientists and other famous people from today and yesterday, while the Point of View Reference Source, opens a new window hosts critical essays of current events with an overview and two sides of the issue.
The LearningExpress Library, opens a new window has a wealth of resources for students, educators and adult learners. High school students can explore skill-building resources for classroom and homework success and prepare for college admissions tests via tutorials and practice tests. College students can explore modules that test their skill sets and help them prepare for graduate school entrance exams.
The LearningExpress Library also has resources for professional development, career development and job preparation to help you achieve personal education and career goals.
For lifelong learning and professional development
Whether for personal interest or professional development, it’s never too late to learn a new language. Mango Languages, opens a new window, another online resource available with your OPL library card, gives you access to more than 70 world languages. It’s not just about memorizing vocabulary; Mango immerses you in real-life conversations and cultural insights, making learning feel natural and fun.
If you’re looking to boost your career, pursue a new path or just satisfy your curiosity, LinkedIn Learning, opens a new window can help you reach your goals. You get access to thousands of courses taught by industry experts on everything from technical skills like coding and data science to soft skills like leadership and communication.
Whatever your learning goals, OPL can help you along your journey. Find all available online resources at omahalibrary.org/resource-center, opens a new window.
Back to school with OPL
Beyond digital resources, OPL remains a welcoming space for studying, reading and recharging. With free Wi-Fi, public computers, teen-friendly zones and reservable study and meeting rooms, OPL is a supportive environment for learners of all ages wherever they are.
About Omaha Public Library
Omaha Public Library (OPL) strengthens our communities by connecting people with ideas, information, and innovative services, acting as an essential catalyst, collaborator, and connector. Learn about OPL's collections, facilities, services, programs and more at omahalibrary.org.
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