How I Used My Library Card to Get Free GED Study Materials (A Walkthrough)

I walked into my library asking about GED prep and walked out with a stack of free study guides and access to online databases I didn't know existed. Here's what I found and how you can access the same resources at your library.

Step 1: Ask the Librarian

This is the key step. I asked the librarian, "Do you have GED prep materials?" and she led me to a whole section I didn't know existed. Many libraries have a dedicated area for test prep.

What I found: Barron's GED study guides, Peterson's GED study guides, and Kaplan GED prep books — all free to borrow.

Step 2: Check for Online Database Access

My library has access to EBSCO Learning Express, which includes GED prep courses. I can access it from home using my library card number. It has video lessons, practice problems, and full practice tests.

Not all libraries have this, but many do. Ask your librarian what online databases they subscribe to.

Step 3: Ask About Free GED Classes

Some libraries offer free GED classes taught by volunteers or librarians. Mine doesn't, but I found that the library in the next town over does. It's worth asking.

Step 4: Borrow Study Guides Strategically

I borrowed three different GED study guides and compared them. They cover the same material but explain it differently. Having multiple explanations of the same concept was genuinely helpful — sometimes one book's explanation clicked better than another.

What I Got for Free

• 3 GED study guides (borrowed)
• Access to EBSCO Learning Express (online GED prep)
• Access to GED.com's free materials (through the library's website)
• A list of other free resources the librarian compiled

Total cost: $0

The Honest Truth

Library resources vary a lot. Some libraries have extensive GED prep materials and classes. Others have almost nothing. But it's worth asking — you might be surprised what's available.

What to Ask Your Librarian

When you go to the library, here are the specific questions to ask:

1. "Do you have GED prep books I can borrow?"
2. "Do you have access to any online GED prep databases?" (Ask specifically about EBSCO Learning Express, Tutor.com, and Brainfuse)
3. "Do you offer any free GED classes or tutoring?"
4. "Do you know of any free GED classes in the area?"
5. "Do you have access to the official GED practice test?"

Librarians are genuinely helpful and often know about resources that aren't advertised. Don't be shy about asking.

Online Library Resources Worth Knowing About

EBSCO Learning Express: Comprehensive test prep for GED, SAT, ACT, and many other tests. Available through many public libraries. Includes video lessons, practice problems, and full practice tests.

Tutor.com: Live online tutoring in many subjects. Available through many public libraries. You can get real-time help from a tutor using your library card.

Brainfuse: Another online tutoring service available through some libraries. Includes a writing lab where you can submit essays for feedback.

Kanopy: Free streaming of educational documentaries and courses. Available through many libraries.

How to Access Library Resources From Home

Most library digital resources can be accessed from home using your library card number. Here's how:

1. Go to your library's website
2. Look for "Digital Resources," "Online Databases," or "eResources"
3. Find the resource you want (EBSCO, Tutor.com, etc.)
4. Enter your library card number when prompted
5. Access the resource from your browser

What Most People Don't Know About Library Digital Resources

The public library card in your wallet is one of the most underused resources available to GED candidates. Most people know that libraries have books — but the digital resources available through a library card are far less well-known, and in many cases more valuable for GED preparation.

The specific resources vary by library system, but most medium-to-large public library systems provide free access to some combination of the following:

Tutor.com or similar live tutoring services: Many library systems provide free access to on-demand tutoring in math, science, writing, and other subjects. Sessions are typically 30-60 minutes with a qualified tutor. This is the equivalent of paying $40-80 per session on the open market, available free with a library card.

Learning Express Library: This database includes GED practice tests with detailed explanations, skill-building courses, and career preparation resources. It's specifically designed for test preparation and is available through many library systems.

Mango Languages: For GED candidates who are English language learners, many libraries provide free access to Mango Languages, which offers structured language learning in dozens of languages.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com): Some library systems provide free access to LinkedIn Learning's entire catalog, which includes courses on writing, math, and professional skills relevant to GED preparation.

How to Find Out What Your Library Offers

The easiest way is to call your library's reference desk and ask: "What digital resources do you offer for adult learners or test preparation?" Reference librarians are specifically trained to connect patrons with resources, and they often know about programs that aren't prominently advertised on the library's website.

You can also check your library's website under "Digital Resources," "Online Databases," or "eResources." Look specifically for anything labeled "Adult Learning," "Test Preparation," or "Job and Career."

If your local library doesn't have the resources you need, check whether your state library system offers statewide digital resources. Many states provide access to certain databases for all residents, regardless of which local library they use.

Using Physical Library Resources Strategically

Beyond digital resources, physical library collections often include GED preparation books that would cost $20-40 to purchase. Checking out three or four different GED prep books gives you access to different explanations of the same concepts — useful when one book's explanation doesn't click.

Many libraries also have quiet study spaces with free Wi-Fi, which is valuable if your home environment isn't conducive to focused studying. Some libraries have private study rooms that can be reserved in advance.

The Interlibrary Loan Option

If your library doesn't have a specific resource you need, ask about interlibrary loan. Most library systems can borrow books from other libraries in the network, usually within a week or two. This gives you access to a much larger collection than your local branch holds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a library card to access these resources?

Yes, most library digital resources require a library card. Getting a library card is free at most public libraries. You typically need to show ID and proof of address.

Q: What if my library doesn't have GED resources?

Check neighboring city or county libraries — many allow residents of nearby areas to get library cards. Also check your state library system, which sometimes provides statewide access to resources. And remember that Khan Academy and USAHello are free without any library card.

Q: Can I borrow GED books for as long as I need them?

Library loan periods vary (typically 2–3 weeks) and can usually be renewed if no one else has requested the book. If you need a book for longer, ask the librarian about extended loan options or consider purchasing a used copy.

Q: Are library GED classes as good as paid prep courses?

Library GED classes vary in quality. Some are taught by experienced instructors and are excellent. Others are more basic. Ask about the instructor's qualifications and the class format before committing. The price (free) makes them worth trying even if the quality is uncertain.