Virtual Library
Jisc Virtual Library is a portal to eBooks and other online resources, brought together into a course format that can be seamlessly integrated into existing virtual learning environments (VLEs).
Subscribe now for FREE : Jisc LSM page
What is a Virtual Library?
A Virtual Library is like a real library – a collection of books and resources that can be accessed by visitors of the library. Jisc Virtual Library is an online space dedicated to bringing together all of the resources available to FE colleges via Jisc membership, through a single course which can be integrated directly into digital learning journeys.
What will I find in the Virtual Library?
In the Virtual Library, you’ll find links e-books provided to your institution for free through the e-books for FE subscription that is included in FE Jisc membership. Jisc’s amazing online resources for hairdressing and barbering, which are free for Jisc members, are included; along with links to the resources provided by the Vocational Learning Resource (VLR) services. The VLR services are subscription services available via Jisc; they include construction training, education and childcare training, digital and IT training, and health and social care training.
The Virtual Library’s e-books and resources are organised into subsections like subject or qualification level for ease of navigation. In the future, we hope to include even more Jisc resources – if there is something specific you’d love to see us include, please let us know.
How will I access the Virtual Library?
The Virtual Library is a collection of e-book and resource information and links, laid out in course format, which can be seamlessly integrated into your college’s existing VLE. The installation process is quick and easy – all you need is a code supplied in your introduction email, and administrator permissions on your VLE (don’t worry if you don’t have this – your organisation’s IT department will be able to set this up). Integration takes less than five minutes.
Once added to your VLE it can be accessed by anyone with access to that part of your VLE: admin staff, teaching practitioners and learners.
How can I make the most out of the Virtual Library?
We’ve put together a handy guide to help you make the most out of the Virtual Library, with hints for linking to resources in the most attention-grabbing way, how to encourage wider reading, and how to get the best out of the resources the Virtual Library contains. The guide can be accessed from within the Virtual Library once it has been integrated into your VLE and will also be provided in your welcome email when you subscribe to Virtual Library.
What if I need more help?
We’ve put together a section on the Virtual Library labelled Support for Teachers and Librarians, we will keep this updated with guidance and resources. If you need support around the e-books for FE platform that the e-books are hosted on please see our e-books for FE support site. If you need support around the vocational learning resources and their platform please see our VLR support site. If you need any further guidance or assistance, or wish to give us any feedback please contact content.feandskills@jisc.ac.uk .