I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful clean air outside! Last Monday, the 5th & 6th graders had their first Library class. They learned how to find e-books on Sora. Sora is an app that connects to school or public library collections of e-books and audiobooks. HRBA students use their school credentials (Holy Rosary email and password) to access the school library's e-book collection. The 7th & 8th graders will have their first Library class on Monday the 21st.

Students may also add their public library account to Sora in order to have access to many more e-book and audiobook titles! If your student has a public library card, please have your student bring it to school on Monday. I will show them how to add their public library account to Sora.

If your student does not have a library card, you may apply online at one of our local public libraries.

Get a card at Tacoma Public Library

Get a card at Pierce County Library System

Sincerely,

Naomi Smith

From which public library should my student get a card?

Either one! If you live inside the city limits of Tacoma, your home library is Tacoma Public Library (TPL). If you live in one of the surrounding towns* such as Fife, Lakewood or University Place or in unincorporated Pierce County, your home library is Pierce County Library System (PCLS). Additionally, the two library systems have a reciprocal borrowing agreement meaning that you could get a card at both libraries. *Excluding the towns of Fircrest, Ruston, Carbonado & Roy.

Is my child required to have a public library card?

No. This is not a requirement. However it is definitely encouraged. A public library card will provide your student with access to a vast collection of e-books as well as access to online research tools. All HRBA students have access to the school's collection of e-books through the Sora app.

Can my child just use my library card for Sora?

Yes. If you would like your child to use your account for Sora, you can send your card or card number and password (usually the last 4 digits of the cardholder's phone number) with them on Monday. I will also provide directions for them to take home in case they forget or don't bring a card.

My child has a library card, but it's lost or has another issue

The best thing to do is to call or email your local public library. Again, I will be sending instructions home, so please do not feel that you need to add fixing your public library account issues to your weekend to-do list!

Can parents use Sora too?

No, but you can get access to e-books and audiobooks with Libby. Sora is an app designed for school libraries by Overdrive. Libby is Overdrive's app for public libraries. You can download Libby in the app store and connect to your local library's collection using your card.