For educators
Whether you teach in a classroom, homeschool, or anything in between, we’re here for you! Get in touch any time we can help you get access, plan a library session, or find resources to support your curriculum.
If there’s a librarian you already work with, you can contact them directly about anything mentioned on this page. If you don’t have an assigned librarian yet, get in touch and we’ll set you up with one.
Accounts and access
Aside from our regular library cards, we have a couple of special account options for educators.
Institutional cards
Schools and child care programs can get an institutional library card to check out up to 100 items at a time. To get an institutional card, the fiscal agent of your organization (usually the principal or director) should fill out the Institutional Borrower’s Application (PDF). You can bring the completed application to the checkout desk at any library location or give it to a member of our outreach staff. To learn more about institutional library cards, contact Outreach Services at 919-560-0155.
For Durham Public Schools – Bull City, NC SLAM
DPS teachers and staff can get a free library card through the Bull City, NC SLAM program by presenting your DPS ID at any DCoL location. You don’t need to be a Durham County resident. Your SLAM account works like a normal adult borrower card.
All DPS students automatically have a SLAM ID unless they have opted out of the program. For students, the SLAM ID is the same as their PowerSchool number. Your class can use their SLAM IDs for accessing library resources online and for requesting books to check out.
Learn more about how Bull City, NC SLAM works.
Bring the library to you…
Did you know that the library can come to you? We offer programs such as themed visits based on your curriculum, storytimes, STEAM/maker events, group library card signup events, library info sessions, and much more! We can come in-person or do a virtual visit. To get started, fill out the form to request a visit, and someone will be in touch.
…or bring your class to the library
You can also bring your class or group to us for a library tour or onsite library program. If you’re interested in doing a group library visit, please give us at least 3 weeks notice so we can prepare. Fill out the form to request a visit to Main Library, or contact your location to make arrangements at our regional and branch locations.
Curriculum support
We have a great collection for kids and teens, and we’re happy to help you strategize about resources to use in your curriculum. If your whole class will be assigned the same book, let us know, and we’ll try to help. We have Boardmaker software available for you to use. Design visual aids including Augmentative and Alternative Communication, picture schedules, choice boards, and much more!
Featured online resources
Brainfuse HelpNow
Free online tutoring, help with writing assignments, and more.
NoveList Plus
Discover new books with author read-alikes, book discussion guides, reading lists, and more. Search by grade or reading level.