Visiting the library is all about learning—whether it is checking out a cookbook, attending a genealogy course, or perfecting your resume. We also understand that there are numerous benefits to online learning. Online learners can take part in courses on their own time, at their own pace, and at any location. That is why the New York Public Library provides access to a wide range of online learning tools, take a look at the highlights below— all you need is your New York Public Library card!

1. Learning Express

Many patrons visit the library to find preparation materials for the SATs, AP exams, GED, occupational exams, and entrance exams. If you are searching for exam preparation materials try the LearningExpress database. This online resource provides not only test prep covering all levels and areas of education, but also courses to help adults build core skills, such as writing, math, and public speaking.

2. PressReader

PressReader will help you keep up on current events or research topics of special interest to you. It provides access to thousands of current newspapers and magazines from around the world in full-color, full-page format. Titles include Smithsonian, The Chicago Tribune, Newsweek, The Los Angeles Times and The Philadelphia Inquirer.

3. Small Business Reference Center 

The Small Business Reference Center database provides instructions on all aspects of starting a small business. It also provides the full text of the business-related guides from the Nolo Press, which cover everything from how to write a business plan to which workplace technology is right for you.

4. Mango Languages

Mango Languages, an online language learning program, has courses for 71 different languages, including specialties such as Pirate. Patrons may be particularly interested in the ESL courses or courses that can assist with job search and promotion, such as "Job Seeking in English" or "Legal Spanish."  You can also prepare for that upcoming vacation with courses like, "Wine and Cheese French" and "German for Oktoberfest." 

5. Digital Theatre Plus

Digital Theatre Plus does not only provide access to top-rate theater productions, but also provides learning options for theater practitioners. Take some time to explore the "Practice & Practitioners" section of this online resource and access a variety of masterclasses, covering topics such as directing, acting, and vocal work. Patrons can also access a large selection of interviews with directors, playwrights and theater actors at the top of their field. Digital Theatre Plus even has videos covering theater theory and criticism . Please note this database is available onsite only. You can access Digital Theatre Plus at any NYPL location on our computer terminals or on your own device.

With more than 500 online research options available, many accessible from home with a library card, we challenge you to go beyond the search engine and dig deeper online with NYPL.