Library Skills Toolkit
Welcome to the Library Skills Toolkit! On this page you will find links, videos and ready to print handouts to get your students excited about research!
Each video is suitable for watching with a class or group. The pace of each video is slow to allow for brain break pauses or to allow educators to tailor the content for specific class projects.
Our Children’s Librarians are also available to host class visits online or in in person. Please call your Local Branch Children’s Librarian or email childrens.teens@vpl.ca to schedule.
Once you have completed all three modules, consider challenging your students to test their Library Skills by escaping from the Wizard's Library Virtual Escape Room. Check your answers on the Escape Room Answer Key.
Module 1 | Using the Library Catalogue
In this 14 minute Using the Library Catalogue Video, a Children’s Librarian will take you through using the Library Catalogue, including how to search for a topic, how to limit a search, and how to request an item.
Using the Library Catalogue Printable Handout, Challenge Questions and Challenge Answers
Module 2 | Library Databases
In this 15 minute Using Library Databases Video, a Children’s Librarian will take your class through what databases are, how to find a database, and how to search within databases to find the information you need.
Library Databases Challenge Questions and Answers
Module 3| Searching the Internet
In this 20 minute Searching the Internet Video, a Children’s Librarian will take your class through how to effectively search the internet for the information you need, including how to assess websites for accuracy, relevance, authority, currency and purpose.
Searching the Internet Handout, Class Discussion Guide, Word Search and Challenge Questions
How to Check out eBooks and Audiobooks
Watch our Learn with VPL video tutorials. These videos provide a step-by-step guide on how to get a library card, log in to your online account, borrow items from the digital library, and use other digital resources like TumbleBooks.
Unique Collections at VPL
New and Noteworthy Books at VPL
To find the hottest titles for kids and teens visit our New and Noteworthy Booklists. Lists are by year and grade level, with notations for starred reviews, Canadian content and topical interest.
Virtual Field Trips
Vancouver Public Library has been privileged to partner with many authors, museums, and organizations to offer a variety of educational student talks and virtual trips.
Check our YouTube Playlist to watch past events and search our events guide for upcoming events.