Free Online Help and Services for Mercer County Teens during COVID-19

Although the Mercer County Library System has been closed for more than two months now, you can still stay connected with library happenings by checking out the online content on the Mercer County Library System website! Even if you don’t have a library card, you can apply for a temporary card through our eCard Registration.

Check out the databases at MCLS for help with your schoolwork. There are several outstanding tutorials on the library’s YouTube channel created by our IT staff to guide you through the various databases. Also check out the library’s blog for posts about our databases.

LearningExpress Library is a great database for preparing for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, AP® Exam and NMSQT. If you’re preparing for an upcoming test, be sure to visit your official test administrator’s website to see if there are any important changes related to COVID-19.

LearningExpress Library is also an outstanding resource to help build your algebra, geometry, statistics and other mathematical skills. In addition, LearningExpress Library can help build your vocabulary and writing skills; expand your knowledge in biology, chemistry and earth science; sharpen your social studies skills in civics, geography and American history; and so much more. Simply set up an account with a user name and password and you’re all set to track your progress!

Try our new database BrainFuse! BrainFuse has online tutorials in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Need extra help? You can send a request and have someone review your document, or use the HelpNow tutors that are available daily from 2-11 p.m. You can even connect with a language tutor for help with your foreign language class.

Are you applying to colleges? Our staff will read and review your college application essay and offer recommendations! Just send your college essay to: collegeapps@mcl.org, as a Microsoft Word attachment, or as a Google Doc link, and a staff member will get back to you with feedback.
Do you miss going to the bookstore and reading magazines? You can read current and back issues of magazines using our digital magazine service Flipster. From business, entertainment, and science, to fashion, fitness and food, you’ll have access to dozens of magazines, all for free!

Do you miss going to the movies with your friends? You can virtually meet up with the MCLS community! No movie stub needed! Every Saturday night at 8 p.m., watch a movie and share your thoughts in the comments section of MCL’s Facebook page. Using hoopla, download that week’s movie to your phone or tablet, or stream it.

Are you a gamer? Join us on Facebook every Friday at 8 p.m. to discuss tabletop role playing games.

Want to increase your music library? Use Freegal and get free access to more than 15 million songs! Check out the details on our home page.

Do you miss your school’s book discussion clubs? Are you an artist?
We have discussion groups, drawing parties, and many other programs happening virtually.

Need a book for school or just for pleasure? Download an eBook or audiobook from eLibraryNJ or hoopla!

Our physical buildings may be temporarily closed, but our virtual branch is open 24/7! Design your own schedule to include your favorite online activities offered by Mercer County Library System, and keep checking for new items and services being added.

- by Susan Seidenberg, Ewing Branch

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