Cochrane Public Library Launches Homeschool Helpers Initiative to Support Local Families

In response to growing demand from the community, Cochrane Public Library (CPL) is excited to announce the launch of its Homeschool Helpers kits. This new collection aims to provide enhanced resources and support for homeschool families in Cochrane, reflecting CPL’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and exceptional service. 

The Homeschool Helpers Initiative comes as a direct result of feedback gathered from the CPL’s annual Patron Satisfaction Survey, as well as from members of the home education community. According to a conservative estimate from ursa Home Based Education, there are at least 400 homeschooled students in Cochrane seeking meaningful connections and educational resources. 

To address these needs, CPL has developed a multifaceted approach. Key elements of the Homeschool Helpers Initiative include: 

• Creation of a Curriculum Lending Collection: A new collection  of curriculum-focused books, educational games, and learning kits for Grades 1-9 is now available. This collection will provide homeschool families with valuable resources tailored to their educational needs –  though items are available to all members of the community. 

• STEAM programs intended for homeschool families, including an Indigenous Perspectives series, Mad Science sessions, and workshops hosted by the Cochrane Ecological Institute – all scheduled during weekday daytime hours to better accommodate homeschool students. 

“We are thrilled to expand our support for homeschool families through the Homeschool Helpers Initiative,” said Carmen Erison, Program and Engagement Manager at Cochrane Public Library. “The feedback from our patrons clearly indicates a strong demand for these resources and programs. With support from the Cochrane Foundation and Home Treasures, we are able to provide valuable tools and opportunities that will enrich the educational experience for homeschooled students and foster greater connections within the community.” 

For more information about the programs or collections offered by the Cochrane Public Library, please visit https://cochranepubliclibrary.ca