HELOISE: Touting libraries’ online tutoring

Dear Heloise: Thanks so much for the kind words about libraries, and especially the San Antonio Public Library, in which I have a special interest! (We recently printed hints about the many services that public libraries provide that you may not even know about! — Heloise)

I am writing to ask if you would help libraries all over the country get the word out about a truly special service that we offer: live online tutoring in real time with qualified, background-checked tutors. Our library and others subscribe to Tutor.com, an online service that provides live tutoring in language arts, social studies, science and math up to the college intro level, in English and in Spanish.

The tutors are graduate students, retired teachers and even college professors and active teachers. All tutors undergo thorough training. For job-seekers, the same service even provides live online real-time assistance in developing r sum s and cover letters and improving your interview skills.

This service would cost $35 an hour or more if you had to pay for it, but many public libraries offer it at no cost. All you need is a library card and a computer with Internet access. And, if you don’t have a computer at home, the library has one you can use! This is a hint that will help lots of students and their parents — both they and your local librarian would appreciate your help in passing it along.

Beth Graham, public-relations manager, San Antonio Public Library

Beth, thanks for sharing another hint about the wonderful and helpful services that libraries offer. Helping people, especially these days, is very important!

Heloise

Dear Heloise: When my granddaughter was small, we used to play “Little Lost Girl.” I’d ask if she was lost, what her name was, what her mommy’s name was, where mommy worked and the like. Kids love to role-play at an early age, and this was a great way to teach the necessary information she needed.

Judy, via e-mail

Judy, a very valuable game! Also important? The child’s address and a phone number for Mom or Dad. It may be a good idea to have a special code word, song or question for when someone approved by the parent is unexpectedly picking up the child.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: When I have an appointment, event, etc., I write the information (“Dentist 9:30,” “Bob’s 37th!”) on a “flag-it” style sticky note and affix it on my calendar on the appropriate date. Every day, I take the next day’s notes and put them on the bathroom mirror or on my door so I don’t forget them. I also sometimes take notes with me and put them in the car or on the back of my cell phone. Better than a string around the finger! Thank you for the info and laughs through the years.

Mary P., via e-mail

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate