Space is a frequently mentioned need - meeting rooms, study rooms, use of whatever space is possible to obtain at zero or very low cost. Homeschoolers often engage in cooperative learning activities and would very much appreciate the opportunity to use library space. Homeschoolers often find it necessary to meet outdoors, in public parks, which makes some kinds of activities difficult and also forces cancellation of activities due to poor weather conditions.
Family-oriented programs and activities are often preferred by homeschoolers, rather than grade-level or age-level based. The homeschooled kids are used to working in multi-age environments and they are comfortable that way. It is more convenient for parents and is more "natural" and allows older children to lend a hand or serve as role models for the younger ones. Libraries can find out from the homeschoolers in their area whether or not there are specific activities or programs that they’d like to participate in during the day. These might range from family read-aloud times to book discussion clubs for teens.
Volunteer opportunities for homeschooling families to provide services to the library itself can be provided. Some libraries have age limits for volunteer work, but if they are willing to waive those age limites, homeschooling families can be a great resource and parents can supervise younger children’s work.
Access to technology such as internet services or other computer-based resources and the ability to use or borrow software such as educational games is appreciated by many homeschoolers. Although many homeschoolers have extensive computer resources in their own homes, there are also many who can’t afford computers and internet connections and educational software.
Support for academic needs as well as leisure reading is of interest to homeschoolers. This requires librarians to become informed about the types of learning resources or curriculum used by homeschoolers in their area and to determine what kinds of juvenile and young adult fiction and nonfiction materials would best serve their needs.
Video and audio tapes are frequently used by many homeschoolers. Many homeschoolers would be interested in tapes of PBS or other educational programs or instructional videos as well as high quality unabridged books on tape.
Extended borrowing periods and allowing families to check out more materials at one time can be very helpful to homeschooling families.
Homeschooling information can be offered by libraries, by providing folders or notebooks with information about state laws and names and addresses of home schooling organizations in the area. Resources specifically to help those just considering or beginning homeschooling are often needed.
State educational standards, courses of study, or curriculum guides can be made available in library reference sections.
Bibliographic information has been collected by some libraries to help homeschoolers find information when they are studying a specific subject.
Display space for homeschoolers to display art or science projects could be provided.
Science equipment could be provided on loan to homeschooling families.
Access to college and career information would be appreciated by homeschooling teens.
Library tours and information on the various library collections and any special services would be of interest to most homeschooling families.
Speakers on topics of interest to homeschooling parents could be arranged by libraries. These might include, for example, speakers on child development, learning theories, or lectures on specific academic subjects. Talks by experienced homeschoolers on subjects related specifically to homeschooling would also be appreciated.
