Linking YOU to the World

HOUSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY Community Engagement Services Catalog

The Houston Public Library (HPL) Community Engagement Team offers the community a variety of free services provided by the Houston Public Library as well as use of the HPL Mobile Express unit!

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Pre-School Courses Houston Public Library’s Improv Puppet (HIP) Theatre It’s show time at HIP Theatre! Our storytime on wheels provides a formative atmosphere for the youth, encouraging them to get their creative juices flowing and setting their imaginations free. Our captivating selection of puppets along with their unique vibrant personalities helps break down barriers with children and opens the pathways for early literacy. Learning through play is fundamental to a child’s education; our puppet theater offers children an engaging way to interact and explore their knowledge of the world and expand their vocabulary. Average Course Time: 30 minutes

LegoTM Education - Duplo One of the most important parts of a young child’s developing mind is learning how to be creative. This class teaches science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts by using LegoTM Duplo kits to introduce simple machines to young students. Average Course Time: 45-60 minutes

Pop Up Library Pop Up Library focuses on literacy development and learning efforts during early childhood. It incorporates activities in the areas of math, science and creative arts. The Pop Up Library is a transportable unit equipped with shelving, seating and books containing exciting incentives. This unit can be re-configured to fit any space. The library includes English and Spanish language materials, such as FLIP kits, e-readers, and iPads. Average Course Time: 30 minutes, 1-2 sessions

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Pre-School Courses (continued)

Pop Up Library TOO Pop Up Library TOO is an expanded version of our famous Pop Up Library program that focuses on the literacy development and learning efforts of children with various special learning needs. It incorporates books, technology and sensory learning activities that are fun and enjoyable. The Pop Up Library TOO is a transportable unit equipped with seating and books containing exciting incentives and take home activities to continue the learning fun! This unit can be re-configured to fit any space. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Storytime With our storytime sessions, our talented Mobile Express instructors will read books to children in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Storytime will include books from the HPL collection, providing a variety of stories that are fun, educational and exciting! Average Course Time: 30 minutes

Storytime Fitness Storytime Fitness combines reading, advocacy, kids and fun. Children go on a fun and whimsical adventure where active learning and literacy are not only fun but good for their health. Storytime Fitness includes books and DVD presentations that teaches the importance of nutrition and engages children in a 30 minute kid-friendly fitness activity. Average Course Time: 45 minutes

TumbleBook Library TumbleBook Library is an online digital storytime geared for families available through the HPL database. In this course children and families will learn how to access TumbleBook Library through the HPL website. They will have an opportunity to sample the online texts available through the program. Average Course Time: 30-45 minutes

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Juvenile Courses (Up to Age 12) Brainfuse Tutoring* Brainfuse is a website that offers online homework help and tutoring to connect students to tutors at anytime and anywhere. Brainfuse also offers the Brainfuse Learning Suite, with one-to-one learning solutions for students of all ages via the Internet. The features for the Brainfuse Learning Suite include Live Homework Help, Writing Lab, the ultimate writing and proofreading service and Skills Center Resource Library, a robust library of worksheets, videos and sample problems that further a student’s subject comprehension. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Encarta Education Encarta is a digital encyclopedia installed on the Mobile Express unit and at Children’s Literacy stations at all Houston Public Library locations. We have two versions of Encarta. One is the standard Encarta Encyclopedia, and the other is Encarta for Kids, which provides a user-friendly environment to make it easy for children to navigate and teaches a variety of subjects, ranging from science, history and social studies to the arts. Encarta includes a wide range of tools and resources for students including educational videos and games. Average Course Time: 60 minutes

* Requires Library Card

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Juvenile Courses (Up to Age 12) Gaming Video games are used as an effective learning tool to help motivate students with problem solving techniques. They help students process information much faster and improve on their gaming and physical fundamentals. These games can have a great effect on health, well-being and fitness. Average Course Time: 1 - 2 hours

Houston Public Library’s Improv Puppet (HIP) Theatre It’s show time at HIP Theatre! Our storytime on wheels provides a formative atmosphere for the youth, encouraging them to get their creative juices flowing and setting their imaginations free. Our captivating selection of puppets along with their unique vibrant personalities helps break down barriers with children and opens the pathways for early literacy. Learning through play is fundamental to a child’s education; our puppet theater offers children an engaging way to interact and explore their knowledge of the world and expand their vocabulary. Average Course Time: 30 minutes

TumbleBook Library TumbleBook Library is an online digital storytime geared for families available through the HPL database. Children and families will learn how to access TumbleBook Library through the HPL website. They will have an opportunity to sample the online texts available through the program. Average Course Time: 30-45 minutes

LegoTM Education - Robotics This class will focus on engaging youth participants to explore STEM through the manipulation and construction of LegoTM Education kits. Courses include Simple Machines, Renewable Energy, and Robotics. Average Course Time: 1-2 hours, 1-2 sessions

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Juvenile Courses (continued)

LegoTM Education- StoryStarter LegoTM StoryStarter will allow children to combine words and images in order to create their own stories. Students will create characters and backgrounds using LegoTM and the StoryVisualizer software, which helps students to present, share and document their tales; they can use a web cam, digital camera, or smart device to take pictures of the images and import them into book form. Students can create stories, comic strips, or even news clips! Average Course Time: 2.5-3 hours, 1-2 sessions

Pop Up Library The Pop Up Library focuses on literacy development and learning efforts during early childhood. It incorporates activities in the areas of math, science and creative arts. The Pop Up Library is a transportable unit equipped with shelving, seating and books containing exciting incentives. This unit can be re-configured to fit any space. The library includes English and Spanish language materials, such as FLIP kits, e-readers, and iPads. Average Course Time: 30 minutes, 1-2 sessions

Pop Up Library TOO PopUp Library TOO is an expanded version of our famous Pop Up Library program that focuses on the literacy development and learning efforts of children with various special learning needs. It incorporates books, technology and sensory learning activities that are fun and enjoyable. The Pop Up Library TOO is a transportable unit equipped with seating and books containing exciting incentives and take home activities to continue the learning fun! This unit can be re-configured to fit any space. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Storytime Fitness Storytime Fitness combines reading, advocacy, kids and fun. Children go on a fun and whimsical adventure where active learning and literacy are not only fun but good for their health. Storytime Fitness includes books and DVD presentations that teaches the importance of nutrition and engages children in a 30 minute kid-friendly fitness activity. Average Course Time: 45 minutes

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Young Adult Courses (Age 12-18) 3D Printing 3D printing has the potential to change the world we live in today by putting rapid prototyping, customizable products in reach of our community. Literacy in basic 3D modeling and manufacturing is an essential skill for future STEM success. In this course students will learn how to be more than inventors; they will become makers by using various types of 3D modeling software and printing actual physical objects that they have designed and modeled themselves. Average Course Time: 3 hours, 1-2 sessions

Brainfuse Tutoring* Brainfuse is a website that offers online homework help and tutoring to connect students to tutors at anytime and anywhere. Brainfuse also offers the Brainfuse Learning Suite, with one-to-one learning solutions for students of all ages via the Internet. The features for the Brainfuse Learning Suite include Live Homework Help, Writing Lab, the ultimate writing and proofreading service and Skills Center Resource Library, a robust library of worksheets, videos and sample problems that further a student’s subject comprehension. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Little Bits Unleash your creativity with these easy-to-use electronic building blocks. In this class you will be provided with the ultimate invention toolbox empowering students to build, prototype, and learn about gadgets. Students will discover building modules activated by light, sound and other sensory triggers. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

* Requires Library Card

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Young Adult Courses (continued) Encarta Education Encarta is a digital encyclopedia installed on the Mobile Express unit and at all Houston Public Library locations. Encarta allows kids, teens, and adults to study and learn about a variety of subjects ranging from the arts, science, and social studies. Encarta’s user-friendly interface makes heavy use of pictures and videos to make learning even more enjoyable. Average Course Time: 60 minutes

Gaming Video games are used as an effective learning tool to help motivate students with problem solving techniques. They help students process information much faster and improve on their gaming and physical fundamentals. These games can have a great effect on health, well-being and fitness. Average Course Time: 1 - 2 hours

LegoTM Education - Robotics This class will focus on engaging youth participants to take an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math through the manipulation and construction of LegoTM Education kits. Courses include Simple Machines, Renewable Energy, and Robotics. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours

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Young Adult Courses (continued) Raspberry Pi Our Raspberry Pi program combines technology and creativity using the innovative new Raspberry Pi computer, a credit card sized computer complete in a single circuit board. Students will use it along with other hardware to learn how to make and program whatever they can imagine, including creating their own radio station, mixing board, weather station, and more! Average Course Time: 1.5-3 hours, 1-2 sessions

Reel Teen Learn how to make a movie! In this class, we will go over some of the fundamentals of movie-making. Students will produce, direct, and star in their own films while learning how to edit video and add sound! Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 4 sessions

Video Games and STEM – Portal 2 This is a multi-part course taught by our instructors on simple videogame level design and applied physics. Using the award winning game Portal 2, we will go through the basics of simple level building with Portal 2’s. This course teaches STEM in a fun and engaging way. Average Course Time: 2-3 hours, 1-4 sessions

Minecraft Build worlds with Minecraft! The instructors will guide students through creative and team building skills via out Minecraft EDU server. This class encourages students to explore their imaginations, to develop problem solving abilities, to work in teams on a variety of activites, and get the chance to apply critical thinking skills by competing against other teams! Average Course Time: 1-1.5 hours, or 30 minutes per group of 14

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Young Adult Courses (continued)

Rocket Frenzy This action-packed course will focus on rockets and the physics of rocket flight by incorporating science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) into a fun, engaging, and challenging activity. Students will learn the basics of forces and the responses to external forces. They will have an opportunity to match their ingenuity with the limits of Newton’s Laws of Physics in order to design their own model rocket that is aerodynamically sound. Participants must provide authorization and space to launch rockets. Average Course Time: 2 hours

Video Game Design – Kodu Game Lab Kodu Game Lab is a fun and easy to use videogame maker. Through its user-friendly interface, students can learn some of the basic concepts of design and programming, without having to learn a programming language! This is perfect for kids and teens who want to learn a little about videogame design. Average Course Time: 1.5-3 hours, 4-6 sessions

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Adult Courses (Age 18+) Brainfuse Tutoring* Brainfuse is a website that offers online homework help and tutoring to connect students to tutors at anytime and anywhere. Brainfuse also offers the Brainfuse Learning Suite for libraries, with one-to-one learning solutions for students of all ages via the Internet. The features for the Brainfuse Learning Suite services include Live Homework Help, Writing Lab, the ultimate writing and proofreading service and Skills Center Resource Library, a robust library of worksheets, videos and sample problems that further a student’s subject comprehension. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Citizenship Class This is a month-long class designed to guide students through the naturalization process, prepare the students for the interview, and increase their chances of becoming a U.S. citizen. Classes held in English only. Average Course Time: 1.5 hours, 4 sessions

Computer Basics 1- 4 A four-part course teaches the fundamentals of computers. Students will learn the main components of computers, types of computers and basic terminology. They will also be exposed to the workings of Windows 7 Operating system, Internet fundamentals and the terminology associated with them. This introductory course is perfect for beginner to intermediate users with little experience using PC’s. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 4 sessions

Encarta Education Encarta is a digital encyclopedia installed on the Mobile Express unit and at all Houston Public Library locations. Encarta allows kids, teens, and adults to study and learn about a variety of subjects ranging from the arts, science, and social studies. Encarta’s user-friendly interface uses multimedia to make learning even more enjoyable. Average Course Time: 60 minutes

* Requires Library Card

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Adult Courses (continued) English as Second Language (ESL) ESL classes are offered to help non-native speakers communicate in English. These classes explore all aspects of the English language, through group and class discussion, dialogue, and pronunciation practice, as well as vocabulary and grammar. Emphasis is on practical every day English and communication skills. Instruction is offered at multiple levels to provide English instruction from Basic to Advanced. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours/session

Mango Languages* Mango Languages immerse you in real, everyday conversations in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, and more. ESL classes are also available. Average Course Time: 1-1.5 hours, 1-2 sessions

Houston Public Library (HPL) Programs and Services The HPL orientation seminar focuses on introducing participants into the library system through an overview of databases and services. Participants can also obtain a library card during orientation. By the end of the course students will be familiar with HPL’s website and Neighborhood Library programming. Average Course Time: 1-1.5 hours

Workforce Development This class provides helpful tips to job seekers who are job searching. Job seekers will develop skills on résumé writing, job searching and interview techniques. This class is ideally for job seekers that want to improve or learn new skills. Average Course Time: 1-1.5 hours, 1-4 sessions

Adult Basic Education This class provides guidance for pupils with a desire for higher education through detailed interactive lesson plans, which encompasses all 4 of the newly designed GED subjects. Our curriculum includes: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning, Science, and Social Studies. Upon completion of this course we want our students to have a better grasp of the basic skills taught in a four-year high school program and in turn open doors for them to pursue a professional career in their field of choice. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 5 sessions

Microsoft Office This three part class is offered in two flavors: MS Word and MS Excel. Students will become master document and spreadsheet editors as they work on exercises that illustrate the principles of the Microsoft suite. In the Excel class students will be able to create, edit and modify spreadsheets, while learning advanced formatting and mathematical operations and tools. Microsoft Word will enable students to create and edit documents and also understand Word’s comprehensive language, formatting and styles tools. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 3 sessions

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Adult Courses (Age 18+) Learning Express* Learning Express is an online database that includes texts, exams and workbooks pertaining to GED, ABE, Citizenship, Job Skills and K-12 resources. Students will have an opportunity to sample the online texts available through the program. The course is expected to take 2 hours for learners that possess average computer skills. If the learners are new to computers the course is expected to take place over 2-3 sessions to build the comfort level in utilizing the program. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 1-2 sessions

Gaming Video games are used as an effective learning tool to help motivate people with problem solving techniques. They help students process information much faster and improve on their gaming and physical fundamentals. These games can have a great effect on health, well-being and fitness. Average Course Time: 60 minutes

Mousing & Keyboarding Basics This class is for anyone who would like to improve their keyboarding skills. Beginners and advanced computer users will benefit from the keyboarding practice. Type faster and more accurately with the resources we provide. Students will learn how to master the mouse using various exercises. Learn how to use drop down menus, Internet links, and copy and paste features. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 1-2 sessions

Internet Basics A two-part class where students explore the possibilities of the World Wide Web and how to access its many features. By the end of this course students will learn how to connect to the internet using a browser, perform basic searches and learn how to use emails. Average Course Time: 1.5-2 hours, 1-2 sessions

* Requires Library Card

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Please visit www.houstonlibrary.org/our-partners/community-engagement for more information on the Houston Public Library‘s Community Engagement Team. This catalog lists a selection of services we currently provide for our community. If you would like to suggest a service to be provided that is not listed here, please email us at [email protected] or call 832-393-1533.

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Mission Statement We link people to the world. Vision HPL is a vital member of a dynamic and diverse local, national and global community.

Linking You to the World www.houstonlibrary.org

12/10/2015