by Bloomington Public Library

These days, even parents who have earned Masters Degrees and PhDs are finding themselves scratching their heads when it is time to help their children with their homework — especially, it seems, when it comes to math.
 
Part of the problem is that it’s been so long since parents learned these skills. The other problem is that the kids are being taught differently now from how their parents were taught when they were young.
But ready or not, in just about a month, school will be back in session. And if you’re among these frustrated parents, lay your headaches to rest for Bloomington Public Library has contracted with Brainfuse to provide online tutoring and resources to those in grades K-12 with additional offerings being made to adults.
 
If you have a library card that was issued at Bloomington Public Library, your access to online tutoring,
homework help, and test prep is just a click away.
 
Brainfuse HelpNow makes bilingual tutors available for learners of all ages from 2-11pm daily.
Aside from offering live online tutoring in the areas of Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies and Writing, Brainfuse also offers test prep in the following areas: SAT, ACT, AP and GED.
 
BrainFuse differs from Tutor.com (the Library’s former online tutoring service) in that the “Language Lab” link in Brainfuse HelpNow offers tutoring to those who are learning to speak Spanish.
 
For those working on larger projects, Brainfuse HelpNow offers a “Writing Lab” where you can submit reports, papers, and resumes, and get feedback within 24 hours.
 
Brainfuse HelpNow has a “SkillSurfer” tab that offers users a library of practice tests, videos, and lessons; the “Meet” and “Brainwave” options are useful when working in a group or conferencing with teachers; and the “FlashBulb” option allows users to utilize existing flash cards or create their own for the purpose of studying.
 
Check out this video to learn more about what Brainfuse HelpNow can do for you: bit.ly/1orBDUU
 
 
Brainfuse JobNow is offered as a separate online resource via the Library’s website. It’s available to help job searchers prepare for interviews, receive resume help and search for local jobs.
 
Live help is available from 2-11pm daily in both English and Spanish.
 
At Brainfuse JobNow, users will find resume templates, resume resources, a resume lab, live interview coaching, interview tips, career assessments and job searching resources.
Accessing Brainfuse Services
 
Brainfuse is only free to those who possess a library card issued at Bloomington Public Library. Brainfuse is a paid service to others.
 
Because of this, those using the Library’s account to access these services must log on to either Brainfuse HelpNow or Brainfuse JobNow via the library’s website – BloomingtonLibrary.org.
From the library’s homepage, look for “Online Resources” in the Quick Links box . After clicking, look to the right and click on “Online Resources in Alphabetical Order;” then scroll to Brainfuse HelpNow or Brainfuse JobNow.
 
Enter your library card number when prompted, and get going.

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