ONE Access grants access to digital resources, technology and more
September 17, 2020
As an avid reader and self-professed “library nerd,” Nicole Reynolds knows that knowledge is power, and a world of possibilities can be found with a library card. While serving as the technology director of Metrolina Regional Scholars Academy, a public, nonprofit K-8 charter school serving the special needs of highly gifted children here in Charlotte, Nicole understands the importance of her students having access to digital resources and technology during this time. As is the case with school systems across the country, the staff and students at Metrolina Regional Scholars Academy found themselves leveraging quality digital resources to further support the needs of their highly gifted students for the 2020-2021 school year.
Upon learning she could get every student and staff member in her school access to Library resources for FREE through ONE Access, Nicole contacted Martha Yesowitch, community partnerships leader for Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, to get her students registered. ONE Access, or “One Number Equals Access,” uses students' school identification numbers as library cards to access Library research databases, borrow digital and print materials and much more. The program initially kicked off in 2015 when all Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students and teachers were enrolled. Since that time, the program has expanded to included universities, colleges, and charter and nonprofit schools.
“As a public, nonprofit K-8 charter school serving the special needs of highly gifted children in Charlotte, our partnership with ONE Access and the Library card program for students and teachers extends a deeper connection with quality resources for research and engagement that heightens their educational experience,” Nicole says. “Through this program, students, teachers, and families have access to resources that help create enriched digital learning experiences beyond the classroom setting.”
While Library locations are currently operating with limited in-person services, access to its vast catalogue of digital resources remains available online 24/7. It is a relief for both parents and students who now find themselves working outside of a “normal” classroom schedule.
Nicole cites access to resources such as Tutor.com, the PowerKnowledge learning suite and the Library’s virtual one-on-one educational support programs as some of the most exciting benefits of getting her scholars library cards through ONE Access. Additionally, staff can now utilize various professional development and reference resources available through apps like NC Live, Universal Class and lynda.com through their ONE Access logins.
“The variety and depth of the ONE Access program helps to ensure our students can easily get what they need as part of their overall education and helps our teachers create more meaningful educational experiences,” she says. “On behalf of our entire school community, thank you Charlotte Mecklenburg Library for supporting local schools!”
If you’re a student or educator, check with your school to see if you already have a ONE Access account. If you are a parent or caregiver without a Library card, or know someone who doesn’t have one, join Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and “get carded” today!
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This blog was written by Darrell Anderson of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.