Check It Out: Learning online at the library

The Newport Beach Public Library provides free access to databases and online resources that provide ample opportunities for learning. Whether you are a casual learner wishing to pursue an interest such as cooking or a professional learning the Adobe Creative Suite, the library has you covered.

Most databases may be accessed remotely via the eBranch section of the library’s website, but a few may only be accessed at the physical locations. Simply obtain a free Newport Beach Public Library card with any valid California identification and plan your course of study.

Universal Class may be accessed remotely and offers more than 500 online non-college credit Continuing Education courses in subjects ranging from planning a wedding to creating a business plan. These self-paced, web-based courses are accessible 24/7, and each customer is welcome to enroll in up to five courses. Each student has up to six months to finish each course. All Universal Classes are led by a live instructor, with whom students may communicate via email.

Rocket Languages may be accessed remotely and offers 15 languages, including American Sign Language and English as a Second Language. Rocket Language’s unique approach integrates Language Lessons to help you speak naturally and Culture Lessons to understand native speakers and context. There is also a self-testing component to reinforce the learning. Whether you are planning a trip and wish to speak the local language, or are brushing up on your skills, Rocket Languages can help.

The Testing and Education Reference Center database may be accessed remotely and is a comprehensive resource covering high school preparatory exams through college and career planning tools. More than 300 practice tests and courses are available on tests such as AP courses, ISEE for independent schools and the Catholic High School Entrance Exam.

SAT, PSAT and ACT practice exams are also available. In addition to offering exams, the Testing and Educational Reference Center offers information on more than 4,000 accredited schools and a scholarship search featuring $8 billion in available scholarships.

For people considering graduate school, this database offers practice exams for the MCAT, LSAT, GRE and GMAT. For people already in the workforce, the resume builder section contains over 1,000 brainstorming phrases to get you started in finding your next job.

Lynda.com is one of the few databases that require users to come to the library for access. The Newport Beach Public Library offers access to Lynda.com in the Media Lab at the Central Library. Users may reserve a four-hour session to utilize the database via the Services tab on the website. Lynda.com is an online video tutorial service that provides professional skills training to individuals in an array of software and design programs. The courses are self-paced and comprehensive, allowing users to keep up in their careers or learn a marketable skill.

Finally, the Central Library hosts the Tuesdays @ 2 public training classes in the Media Lab. All classes are free to the public, and reservations may be made to ensure a spot. Topics include overviews of business and research databases such as Valueline, Consumer Reports and historical newspapers; ebooks via Overdrive and Axis 360; emagazines via Zinio; and genealogy via Ancestry Library Edition.

CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public Library. For more information on the Central Library or any of the branches, please contact the Newport Beach Public Library at (949) 717-3800, option 2.