Six Reasons to Add the Library to Your Back-to-School List

Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL) has free tools and services to help students of all ages with homework, research, reading and more – plus a little extra credit just for fun!  

1. Free digital library access
All Virginia Beach City Public School students in grades K-12 have free year-round access to our digital library, including e-books, music, movies and online research tools, plus computer and internet access in library branches. See VirginiaBeach.gov/Library-VBCPS to get started.  

2. Study spaces, both comfy and quiet
Each of VBPL’s 10 branches has unique and inclusive spaces to study – from booths, tables and chairs for you to focus by yourself or with a small group, to study rooms for quiet time or working collaboratively.  

3. Expanded weekend hours 
No time to visit the library during the busy week? No problem! Most VBPL branches are open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Central Library is open Sundays from 1-5 p.m., from Sept. 8 through May 18, 2025. Find full details on branch hours and locations on VBPL’s website.  

4. HelpNow is ready to help … now!  
HelpNow is an online resource offering live homework help, research and writing assistance, and tutoring (in English and Spanish), all free with a VBPL or student account. You’ll find practice tests for AP exams and the SAT/ACT, and a learning library with videos, lessons and tests to help students build skills and confidence to excel.  

5. One-on-one reading support
If you have a child in grades K-5 who would benefit from personalized reading assistance, schedule them for One Hour with a Youth Librarian. VBPL’s youth librarians will meet with your child to help them:  

• Find books of interest on their reading level. 
• Learn how to locate similar items in the library. 
• Make the most of library resources. 
• Practice their reading skills.  

To schedule time, call 757-385-0150 or email library@vbgov.com.  

6. Extra Credit: Attend a Program!
Kids of all ages can craft, game, cook, watch movies, try STEM activities and so much more! Our event calendar has something for everyone, including:   

• Movie Matinee for teens at Kempsville Area Library  
• Drop-in Little Chefs for grades K-2 at Windsor Woods Area Library
• Pokémon Club for grades 3-5 at Bayside Area Library
• Back to School Open Play for preschool-grade 5 at Joint-Use Library
• Teen Anime Club for grades 6-12 at Central Library  

Visit online or in person to discover how VBPL can make the school year smooth and successful!