Parents & Teachers

Photo of man reading to baby

The Library is your partner in your family's learning. Through free books, educational programs, online tutoring, and more the Library will help your child get ready for Kindergarten, continue their educational journey, and develop a love of reading that will last throughout their lifetime.

Schedule a group or class visit at the library

Schools, daycares, scouts, and other youth groups are encouraged to visit our libraries anytime! Groups of 10 or more should contact the Library to schedule your visit. For groups with children under 8 years old, there should be 1 adult for every 7 children.

With at least a week’s notice, we can gather research materials for school groups if you are researching a specific topic, and if availability allows, we can offer a special storytime or research how-to presentation for your group. Students can check out materials with an existing library cards or get new cards on the day of the visit. Learn more about getting a library card.

To schedule a librarian to visit your school, contact the librarian at the closest library branch. We focus on outreach visits during April and May but are willing to come any time of year!

We welcome homeschoolers to visit our libraries any time! We offer classes on using library resources. Contact the closest library to find out when the next program is. Additionally, we may be able to visit your group at an outside location.

For more information about the Scout Patch program for  Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Trail Life USA scouts, American Heritage Girls, and more, please check here.

Resources for making the most of a library visit:

For more information about bringing a group to the library or having a librarian visit your group, please contact the your closest library location. You may also call the Youth Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Nicolai, 907-343-2840, or email elizabeth.nicolai@anchorageak.gov

Loussac Caregiver's Collection

Available on the second floor of the Loussac Library, the Loussac Caregiver's Collection (call number LCC-J) features books for people who work with and care for children. These include books on homeschooling, family activities, educational activities for children, running a childcare, teaching, brain development in children, infant care, baby sign language, youth librarianship, children's literature, and more. You may also place holds on these items to pick up at other locations.

Loussac Caregiver's Collection

Homeschooling

Homeschool Events @ APL

Library Intro Classes for Homeschoolers:

  • Library Basics
    • Tuesday, September 14, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library
    • Wednesday, September 15, 11am, Chugiak-Eagle River Library
  • eBook downloading
    • Tuesday, October 12, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library
    • Wednesday, October 13, 11am, Chugiak-Eagle River Library
  • Beginning Database Research
  • Advanced Database Research
  • Library Basics - Wednesday January 11, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library
  • eBooks - Wednesdays, February 9, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library
  • Beginning Database Research - Wednesday, March 9, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library
  • Advanced Database Research - Wednesday, April 13, 2pm, Z. J. Loussac Library

Alaska Homeschooling information

Homeschooling has a long history in Alaska. While no formal registration is required, there are a number of options that will provide additional funds, supports, and resources.

Alaska Statewide Correspondence and Homeschool - information from the State of Alaska education department regarding homeschool options and regulations.

Homeschool support programs and charter schools (not a comprehensive list, for that please go here):

  • CyberLynx - statewide homeschool and correspondence school program
  • Denali Peak - statewide homeschool and correspondence program through Denali Borough School District
  • Family Partnership Charter School - Anchorage School District charter school for homeschoolers
  • FOCUS Homeschool - statewide homeschool and correspondence school program through Chugach School District
  • Frontier Charter School - Anchorage School District charter school for homeschoolers
  • IDEA - long running Alaskan homeschooling support program, open to everyone in the state through Galena School District
  • PACE - statewide homeschool program through Craig School District
  • PAIDEIA - Anchorage School District charter school offering homeschool support and cooperative classes
  • Raven - run in conjunction with the Yukon-Koyukuk School District but open statewide as a homeschool program

Online Learning & Digital Resources

With so many online education tools, it can be tough to figure out what’s best for your child. Here are some guides to help you navigate education in the age of the Internet:

Curriculum & School Standards

The national PTA and Council of Great City Schools offer free brochures with Common Core standards listed by grade level for all states. Available in English and Spanish.

Alaska Educational Standards