Digital Library for Children
The library isn’t just physical books! We’ve got awesome resources for ebooks, audiobooks, and online learning right at your fingertips – all you need is your library card. Grab an adult to help as well.
Ebooks, Audiobooks, and Multimedia
Borrow ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more from your local library for free! Libby is the newer library reading app by OverDrive, loved by millions of readers worldwide. It’s available on iOS, Android, and Kindle. New titles are added daily, including read along books for young kids. You can browse the collection online or on your device.
Hoopla is a digital media service that allows Melrose residents to borrow movies, music, audiobooks, ebooks, comics, and TV shows to enjoy on your computer, tablet, or phone – and even your TV! There are no holds and no waiting. You can even turn on Kids Mode in your Settings!
Educational Resources
PebbleGo is a curricular content hub specifically designed for K-2 students. Packed with informational articles, ready-made activities, and literacy supports for students of all abilities, it boosts engagement and fosters independent learning in core subject areas. Melrose residents have access to the Animals and Biographies modules.
ScienceFlix™ is an online resource that focuses on engaging subject-area science content for students spanning grades 4-9. Dozens of units help hone literacy skills while bolstering understanding of crucial subjects relating to science, technology, and engineering.
Specifically for younger readers, NoveList K-8 Plus helps kids find books that are just right for their reading level and interests. Parents and teachers can also find tools to teach with books and engage young readers – including help with Common Core!
LearningExpress Library features nearly 1,000 online tutorials, practice tests, and ebooks to help patrons of all ages. It offers skill building in reading, writing, math, basic science, and more.
Language Resources
All library users can access Pronunciator, a fun and free way to learn any of 87 languages. There are ESL classes in many different home languages, in addition to self-guided classes and live online conversation classes.
With Transparent Language Online, language learners can build vocabulary, practice skills, and maintain what they have learned, available anytime, anywhere in 110+ languages.
Research Tools
Designed for kids, Gale In Context: Elementary delivers trusted, age-appropriate digital content. Through newspaper and magazine articles, videos, images, graphics, and eBooks, elementary students can learn about everything from animals and outer space to famous artists and favorite athletes. The database is visual and intuitive, and rewards students’ efforts by developing comprehension and research skills to prepare them for middle school—and a lifetime of learning.
Explore the updated online encyclopedia from Encyclopedia Britannica. It’s the perfect place to find unique and safe content that empowers younger users to ignite curiosity and discovery. (it’s also available in Spanish!)
Databases are made possible by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and by the Massachusetts Library System.