Online catalogue
We are pleased to announce that you can are now able to look at our online catalogue to view the resources that we have. Please note that you will not be able to log in but you will still be able to see the wide range of resources that your school can borrow.
There are range of useful weblinks available on the catalogue covering a vast range of subjects.
We have produced a range of guides to help you make the most of the catalogue, please get in touch with us if you need more help.
Catalogue help guides
eResources
eResources, offered by Cheshire libraries, contains links to many useful online resources all containing a wealth of information, including Britannica Online, Credo Reference and Newsbank. It can be accessed via Cheshire East and Chester West and Chester libraries website. You will need to be a member of Cheshire Libraries to access the resources.
General literacy websites
Books for Keeps - online magazine featuring book reviews and articles.
Books for Topics - book recommendations by topic and key stage.
Book Trust - reviews, book lists, reading tips and the rather brilliant Book Finder tool (great for finding read-a-likes and books to engage reluctant readers.
The Children’s Book Review - American site dedicated to reviewing and showcasing children’s books and authors.
Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) - hundreds of quality book recommendations and free resources.
Love Reading 4 Kids - book recommendations by topic/key stage/year group. Reviews from children, teachers and librarians
Pen and Inc - a new magazine and listings guide celebrating diversity and inclusion in children's publishing.
The Reading Agency - free resources, including discussion guides and activity packs. They also run giveaways and competitions for schools and libraries.
Reading Hack - aimed at teenagers but activities can be adapted for younger children.
The School Reading List - book recommendations for primary and secondary children.
Toppsta - children's book reviews and giveaways.
World Book Day - great range of free resources and activities.
Online learning websites
Authorfy - free resources based on the novels of some of the UK’s most popular children’s authors. Includes hundreds of videos, reading guides and activities.
BBC Teach - thousands of free educational videos, guides and audio clips.
British Library - includes the Exploring Children’s Books online exhibition and activities.
ChatterPack - a voluntary run, special educational needs and disabilities hub.
The Literacy Company - access a range of free resources to engage pupils in practising key literacy skills if they need to work from home.
Literacy Shed - links to a wide range of learning resources including SEND provision.
Reading Realm - free creative writing and reading resources.
Scholastic Blog - links to high quality teaching resources.
Useful accounts to follow on Twitter
School librarian Lucas Maxwell – @lucasjmaxwell
Children’s writer and librarian Jo Clarke – @bookloverJo
Chief Executive of the School Library Association Alison Tarrant – @fictious_cat
School librarian and campaigner Caroline Roach – @HeartOTSchool
School Library Association – @uksla
Youth Libraries Group – @youthlibraries
Primary School Book Club – @PrimarySchoolBC
Reading Rocks – @_Reading_Rocks_
Funny Book Chat (monthly) – @FunnyBookChat