The Vermont Online Library (VOL) is a curated collection of online information resources covering a broad range of subjects – made available to Vermont citizens and students by the Vermont Department of Libraries (VTLIB). The information resources are produced by known and trusted publishers, with content of interest to both generalists and specialists. The Vermont Online Library is available to Vermont citizens and students at no cost.
All VOL resources are available 24-hours-a-day from your library, home, office or school -- anywhere Internet access is available.
What kinds of Information can I find in the Vermont Online Library?
You have a world of information at your fingertips.
The Vermont Online Library offers access to thousands of publications. Read newspapers from around the world, take a class online (over 20,000+ options!), watch a car repair video, get tips on writing a resume, find the latest information on health and medicine, or help with homework using one of the databases specifically designed for students. Start by browsing the list of resources from Gale Cengage.
How does VOL recognize that I am a Vermonter?
The VOL allows users to share their location directly through their browser or they use a technology called Geo-IP that figures out if the IP address of the computer, tablet, or other device is an IP address know to originate within Vermont. If you share your location or once your IP address is identified as originating within Vermont, you will be ready to start using the databases accessible to the library that is closest to you. In the event your local library is not identified when you share your location or by Geo-IP, you will be able to find a listing for your home library.
I am a Vermonter, but I am traveling outside of Vermont. Can I still access the VOL resources?
Yes. Follow the directions above, but because you are located outside the state you will be asked to provide identifying information like a library card barcode or password from your hometown public, school, or academic library. Contact your local library for assistance if you do not have a barcode or password. Once you know your means of identifying yourself (e.g. library card barcode or password), you will be able to use that each time you use the resources in the VOL. You will only be prompted to enter this once per session.
Can I get a library card online from VOL?
No. Contact your local public, school, or academic library for information on obtaining a library card. Library cards are free – and the best bargain in town!
If I need help searching the resources in the Vermont Online Library, where should I go for assistance?
- Contact a staff member at your local public, school, or academic library.
- Use one or more of the “Help” screens available in the Vermont Online Library resources.
Who decides what resources get included in the VOL?
VTLIB uses the State of Vermont procurement process to send out a Request for Proposal, which can be answered by any company that can provide resources fitting the specifications within. A team within VTLIB evaluates the responses and chooses the vendor that best fits the specifications and state purchasing procedures.
Do you have a question? Want to give us feedback about the Vermont Online Library? Call your local library or use the “Contact Us” link to contact the Vermont Department of Libraries.
What kinds of accessibility features are included in the Vermont Online Library?
Gale platforms are designed to support all users. As such, accessibility features included are adjustable font, color, spacing, and contrast, languages, screen reader compatible, text-to-speech, zoom, and more.