All Kids’ Resources
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ABCmouse.com - use this link at the library
3,500+ interactive books, educational games, puzzles, and other learning activities. For ages 2-7. From Age of Learning, Inc.
ABCmouse.com - use this link from home
After entering your library card number, you will be asked to create an account with your email address and a password. If you are using a mobile device, you will be prompted to download the app. If you are using a computer, you will be directed to the website after creating an account. Access is free through your library.
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BiblioBoard
Illinois residents have access to thousands of e-resources free of charge & no library card is required. Enjoy ebooks, images & videos – the collection includes classic fiction, children’s fiction, graphic novels, Chicago authors and much more. Download the BiblioBoard app (from the iTunes app store for iOS or from the Google Play Store for Android). Create an account profile and be able to access the collections while outside of Illinois. You will also have the ability to download content for offline reading, and to add bookmarks and notes.
Biography In Context
Meet someone new with Biography in Context Learn about people from all walks of life including athletes, entertainers, politicians, historical figures, authors and many others.
BookFLIX
Explore a variety of classic video storybooks and related nonfiction eBooks in one of nine learning categories. Also includes Spanish titles and educational games. For grades Pre-K – 3.
Britannica Library
Enhanced version of Encyclopedia Britannica with a world atlas, primary source documents, historical highlights and media updates. Click on the Thistle in the upper-right corner to access Teach Britannica (resources for teachers.)
Britannica Library for Children
Enhanced version of Encyclopedia Britannica geared to primary grades. Includes world atlas, primary source documents, and recommended web sites.
Britannica Library for Young Adults
Includes primary source documents and historical highlights among search results.
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Chess Tutoring with Live Tutors from Brainfuse
Learn the basics of chess, strategies, tactics and maneuvers. Click on Expert Help, then Featured Service. Tutors available 3:00pm -9:00 pm
ComicsPlus - Children’s Library
Enjoy unlimited access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; on your computer, tablet, or phone. No holds. No wait lists. No limits. Select Des Plaines Public Library and create an account to get started. Age Guidelines How To Navigate Comics Plus
Contemporary Authors
Entries on thousands of authors with full text articles.
Des Plaines Memory
An online collection of photographs, postcards, letters and more all detailing Des Plaines' rich history. A great tool for doing historical and genealogical research.
Experiment Central
Detailed information on more than 300 science experiments for upper elementary and older students. Search by key word or by alphabetical list of science topics.
Explora Middle Schools
Full text database providing popular middle school magazines, reference e-books, and thousands of primary source documents.
Explora Primary Schools
An easy way to find out about everything from animals to current events. Search by keyword or topic. Perfect for research projects!
HelpNow
Free online homework help for users of all ages. The site provides study tools such as video lessons, practice tests, and virtual flashcards in reading and math for students in K – 2 grade and all core subjects in higher grades along with access to virtual tutors, an interactive writing lab, assistance in filling out FAFSA applications, and career support. Spanish speaking tutors are available: tutoría en español.
HelpNow (en español)
AYUDA GRATIS EN LÍNEA para estudiantes, Grados K–12
Hoopla
Borrow digital movies, music and audiobooks with your Des Plaines library card. No holds, no fees. Stream through your internet.
Kanopy Kids
Includes Oscar® nominated family films, PBS kids favorites, literary classic adaptations: Where The Wild Things Are, Johnny Appleseed, Little Red Hen & more.
LOTE4Kids – Storytime in other languages
Digital books in 70+ languages with English translations. Languages include Spanish, Polish, Gujarati, Italian, French & Ukrainian. Listen & read along! Download the LOTE4Kids App
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Mango Languages
Mango offers a variety of fun ways to help you learn another language, including English. A voice comparison feature compares your pronunciation to a native speaker’s. Use it on your computer or tablet or on your cellphone, by downloading the mobile app.
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National Geographic
This searchable archive of over 100 years of National Geographic magazine (1888–present) includes every page and every photograph from the iconic, award winning magazine.
National Geographic Kids
Explore amazing adventures in science, nature, culture, archaeology, and space. Best for children aged 6–14.
NoveList Plus K–8
Helps you find new fiction books to read by searching favorite authors, titles, subjects, and genres. For children in grades K-8.
Pronunciator
Pronunciator is a fun way to learn any of 80 languages with self-directed lessons, live teachers, movies, music, and more. ESL courses are available for speakers of several languages. For adults and children. For children's courses, select a language & click on Learners Guides. Our subscription also includes free access to the Bluebird app!
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Teachables from Scholastic
Printables, lessons, mini-books & more. Teaching resources for every subject K-8. Search by grade level, subject, state standards, theme and/or genre. Includes classroom management tools and clip art.
Teacher Reference Center
Indexing and abstracts for 280 of the most popular teacher and administrator journals and magazines to assist professional educators.
TumbleBook Library
A collection of animated, talking picture books, puzzles and games. Includes books in Spanish and French. For best results, use Chrome on desktop computers.