Does anyone have a "homeschool certificate"? My library is asking for one!

[Pegasus]

My local public library just shortened their check-out period to 2 weeks. I sent an e-mail asking if homeschooling parents would qualify for the special teacher card that allows a check-out period of 6 weeks. The answer I received was yes, but I'd have to provide a homeschooling certificate. Ummm. . .my state doesn't have anything called a homeschooling certificate. Does anyone?!?

I guess it is just a situation of someone assuming that homeschoolers need "permission" to teach their own children at home. I don't have any kind of homeschool group ID or anything so I'm wondering what might satisfy the librarians that I'm a homeschooling parent and not someone just trying to skirt their short standard check-out period.

Thanks.
Pegasus

[Jenstet]

We have to send a "letter of intent" then we receive a "letter of receipt" from the SAU. That is what I use if anyone asks for proof. Barnes and Nobles has a teachers discount and they will use this. Does that help?

[Plaid Dad]

Do you receive any paperwork at all from your state or school district? If so, I would bring that. If there is no such thing in your state, then the library needs to be made aware that they have created an unworkable situation for homeschoolers. I would ask to speak to the head of circulation and explain the problem.

[GreenKitty]

Wow, I've never even heard of that. Maybe you can make up your own?

[Amy in NH]

Yes, in that case I would print off a copy of the state homeschooling law and provide that to the librarian.

[Kris]

You don't mention what state you are in, but I would start by asking for more information from the library. Is there a particular document they are looking for, or did they just make something up?

You can waste a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what it is they are looking for. It might be as simple as a letter from you!

[Pegasus]

Thanks for the ideas, everyone. My DH suggested making one, as well! I was curious if any states actually issued something called a certificate. I think I will wait and talk to my favorite librarian the next time I go in to our branch, rather than trying to communicate with the main library. She may just issue me the card without a fuss, or would certainly be able to explain what she needs.

Pegasus

[Cindyg]

Why not ask the library what they meant by that? Do they want proof that you homeschool? I can think of all kinds of funny ways to prove that! (Bring in all the kids during school hours and have them do Latin chants. LOL!) But I'd ask the library what they want.

[Holly IN]

My state do offer a certificate if you wanted one but not necessary at all. For any proofs of ID of homeschooling, I just use my HSLDA card. If not a HSLDA member then a letter with your letterhead on it with your school name should be enough. Another one is your homeschool group membership or a PEAH membership (this one is free).

Holly

[Kelli in TN]

My local public library just shortened their check-out period to 2 weeks. I sent an e-mail asking if homeschooling parents would qualify for the special teacher card that allows a check-out period of 6 weeks. The answer I received was yes, but I'd have to provide a homeschooling certificate. Ummm. . .my state doesn't have anything called a homeschooling certificate. Does anyone?!?

I guess it is just a situation of someone assuming that homeschoolers need "permission" to teach their own children at home. I don't have any kind of homeschool group ID or anything so I'm wondering what might satisfy the librarians that I'm a homeschooling parent and not someone just trying to skirt their short standard check-out period.

Thanks.
Pegasus

Are you not still with Homelife? You could print out "proof" from Homelife.

Isn't this whole idea bizzarre? I mean, you are not looking for a big discount on a shiny new car or anything. You just want to use the library materials for a little longer. You would think they would welcome the thought that children are studying from and learning through the library materials!:confused: Wouldn't you think?

[Whisperlily]

We used our copy of the "letter of intent" we were required to file with the school district each year. :)

[Anne]

If you take a homeschool magazine with a subscription label in your name on it to our Barnes & Noble store, they will give you a teacher's discount card. Maybe that would work for the library?

I like the idea of trying your favorite librarian - that would work well for me!:)

Anne