I have never been one of those students who is able to breeze through tests. I've always had to work hard to learn new material. Now I am not sure whether the memory lapses I experience during tests are due to anxiety or being over 50. Like it or not, though, tests are required to get a job, join the armed services and further our education. They help others learn more about us and help us to improve ourselves.

Educators have come up with several ways to help reduce test-taking anxiety. One of the first recommendations cited is to be prepared. Luckily, through the support of the Finger Lakes Library System, library patrons now have access to a valuable resource that will help us do just that, prepare for a test.

Library patrons can access the LearningExpress Library online service at their local library or through the Finger Lakes Library's Web page at www.flls.org. Users must have a valid library card from one of the FLLS member libraries. All Cayuga County public libraries are a member of the Finger Lakes Library System.

The LearningExpress Web site describes its product as: “a comprehensive, interactive online learning platform of practice tests and tutorial course series. It is designed to help patrons, students and adult learners succeed on the academic or licensing tests they must pass. You'll get immediate scoring, complete answer explanations and an individualized analysis of your results.” It is a great way to learn or re-learn without a lot of pressure, any time of the day or night. With LearningExpress you don't have to worry whether the book you need is in the library or not. It is always available.

This online practice for job-related and academic exams includes help with the GED, SAT, AP exams, ASVAB, civil service, U.S. citizenship, health careers and more. Yet, LearningExpress Library isn't just for test preparation. There are also improvement aids for elementary and middle school students who need practice or just want to get ahead. Homeschooling guides are also available in the E-book section, along with books to help with reading skills, resume writing and job interviews. However, you will need Adobe Acrobat installed on you computer to read the e-books.

Other frequently mentioned tactics for performing well on tests include, eating a good breakfast, getting enough sleep and practicing relaxation techniques. Now, with LearningExpress and your public library, it is easier for all of us to use these strategies to truly do our best.

Libbie Messina is a librarian at Stewart Lang Memorial Library in Cato.