Here are some of our favorite databases for homework help!
For specific research questions, please contact the Youth Services Desk at 815-534-6178.
Library Databases
Frankfort Public Library District cardholders can use them anywhere with their library card.
Explora for Elementary Schools
Get results for elementary school research on nearly all school subjects. Features full-text articles from more than 70 popular magazines. Lexile reading levels are included for all articles.
History Reference Source
Covering topics in U.S. and world history from the earliest civilizations through the 21st century, this database contains full-text journals, magazines, reference books and thousands of primary source documents.
LearningExpress Hub
Includes a Computer Skills Center, Job and Career Accelerator Center and multiple resources for students including PrepSTEP for college and high school students. Tools include: practice tests, interactive tutorials, e-books, articles, and flashcards.
Lexile Information
The Lexile Framework for Reading is a scientific approach to measuring reading ability and the text demand of reading materials. The Lexile Framework involves a scale for measuring both reading ability of an individual and the text complexity of materials he or she encounters. The Lexile scale is like a thermometer, except rather than measuring temperature, the Lexile Framework measures a text’s complexity and a reader’s skill level.
To find a book's lexile measure, try searching at Lexile.com.
To find a book that matches your interest within your Lexile range, use this guide
Lexile Guide to find one in Novelist.
Literary Reference Center Plus
Literary Reference Center Plus is the definitive literary database, covering literature from all genres and timeframes. Researchers have access to the most comprehensive selection of literary works available, including hundreds of thousands of full-text documents such as poems, classic novels, short stories, synopses, critical essays, literary journals, reference books, and author biographies, as well as lesson plans and literary study guides. This database also includes volumes of fantasy/science fiction, contemporary literature, world philosophy, and religious literature, as well as literary study guides covering American Literature, English Literature, and literary genres.
Middle Search
Magazines and reference books for middle school students. Includes thousands of biographies and primary source documents. Subjects include history, current events, science, sports, and biographies. Also includes photos, maps, and flags.
NoveList Plus K-8
Find just the right book by subject, age, awards won, books made into movies, and much more. Read reviews and learn about the author. Create your own reading wish list. Includes tools for teachers such as Lexile levels and Common Core standards.
Points of View Reference Source
Presents multiple sides of over 500 issues. Helps students assess and develop persuasive arguments and essays, better understand controversial issues, and develop analytical thinking skills.
Primary Search
For elementary school libraries. Content from children’s magazines, easy-to-read encyclopedia entries, and images. Students can learn about animals, musicians, fitness, space exploration, and much more.
Primary Search Reference eBook Subscription
A range of general reference subject coverage for primary school students, with topics like social studies, history, language arts, geography, culture, math, and science.
Science Reference Source
Provides full text for hundreds of science magazines, journals, reference books and high-quality videos. The database also contains science experiments, curriculum-aligned lesson plans, and a vast image collection.