Research & Learn
Browse our resources for learning new skills, researching topics, and more!
Learn New Things
Pronunciator
The world’s largest language-learning service, with 80 languages, ESL for 50 non-English languages, and over 3,750 available courses. Learn how to actually speak a foreign language with the help of pronunciation analysis, virtual coaches, and simulated conversations using your computer, tablet, or mobile device.
Download the Bluebird App for language learning on the go!
App Store for iPhone | Google Play Store for Android
- Find the app in the app store for your phone.
- Sign up with your email and create a password.
- Use Institutional PIN: LOUT
ASL Deafined
ASLDeafined is an online American Sign Language curriculum. Learn ASL at your own pace, develop a better understanding of Deaf culture, and more. Lessons and activities available for all levels of learning including beginner, intermediate, and advanced. You can access the content on the interactive website or download the app on your mobile device to learn on the go!
More Resources:
Flyer
Brochure 1
Brochure 2
Niche Academy
Niche Academy is an online learning platform that offers quick, easy-to-follow tutorials on library resources, technology basics, and other helpful skills. It’s designed to support you at your own pace—whether you want to learn how to use a digital service, explore a new tech tool, or brush up on everyday skills.
Read Michigan
The Read Michigan eBook collection contains hundreds of free-to-read eBooks focused on Michigan and the Great Lakes region. This collection includes past winners of the prestigious Michigan Notable Books award, which pays tribute to the people, places, and things that make Michigan unique. Also included are Michigan Field Guide and Activities, Michigan Poetry, writings from Michigan Author Award Recipients, and University Press historical publications.
Michigan eLibrary
MeL provides statewide access to nearly 40 subscription-based eResources, containing vetted websites on business, jobs, legal, health, government, books and literacy, kids, and teens. Other components of the Michigan eLibrary include: MeLCat, a statewide borrowing system over 430 libraries; Michigana, a portal for discovering primary resources, such as photographs, diaries, maps, and more on Michigan history or Michigan’s place in American History; and the Michigan Online Resources for Educators (M.O.R.E.), a portal linking to tens of thousands of curricular based resources such as lesson plans, interactives, videos, and more that are aligned to the state and national standards.
Learning Express Library
An interactive online learning platform featuring seven interactive learning centers: High School Equivalency, College Preparation, Undergrad Studies, Career Development, Adult Learning, K-12 Schools, and Recursos para Hispanohablantes. Michigan residents or Michigan library access only. (Courtesy of Michigan eLibrary).
Auto Repair Source
Repair information and schedules, diagrams, parts and labor estimates, service alerts, and recalls for thousands of domestic and imported vehicles. (Courtesy of Michigan eLibrary). If you are unable to access this database, you may need to access this eResource at the library instead of remotely.
Research Assistance
Our staff is happy to assist you with your research, whether in person, by phone, or via email. If you are unable to come to the library, we can email, mail, or fax information to you, but if your research requires a great deal of staff time and postage, we will charge a fee. The amount will vary depending on the complexity of the research and is determined by library staff. Call 616.850.6914 or email [email protected] for assistance.