Collections

The Wiekamp Educational Resource Commons collects PreK-12 materials to support pre-service teachers, counselors in training, and educators in the surrounding area. Materials can be checked out to anyone in IU or to local community members with a library card.

Finding your way around the WERC

Items in WERC are divided into individual collections based on the type of material, such as Social Science, Big Books, Juvenile Literature.

Discover what's available

Use IUCAT, the IU-wide library catalog to search for specific titles, authors or subjects. If you need assistance finding materials on your topic, stop by the front desk, call 574-520-4120 or via email ryweber@iu.edu.

IUCAT search tips:

To limit your search to materials only at the WERC:

Select Advanced Search.

On the left hand side of the screen, select Library.

Scroll down and select South Bend - Educational Resource Commons.

Showing WERC location option in IUCAT

Then put your terms in the Search box and select the Advanced Search button.

To search for juvenile materials on a subject:

Type in your subject or keyword along with the phrase ‘juvenile literature’

e.g. presidents juvenile literature

Types of Materials

Curriculum materials – textbooks, companion teacher editions, kits and teaching aids. Great for lesson planning. Also see Lesson plans subject guide.

Children’s literature – fiction and non-fiction, with emphasis on award winners, diversity, and Indiana history.

Big books – oversized books with large text and colorful images for reading to or with young children.

Games and building toys – many topics and formats.

Assisted technologydevices to help parents and educators improve the educational experience for children with special needs.

Maasai Kits – Artifacts, literature, and more that introduce students about the Maasai African culture.

Professional development – numerous handbooks with practical activities and advice, along with these databases: Education in Video| Professional Development Collection | Explora Educator's Edition

K-12 databases - Explora for Elementary Schools| Explora for Middle Schools|

Explora for High Schools| MAS Ultra - School Edition (high school)

Our Collection Development Policy details more information about these collections.

Checking out materials

The WERC welcomes all lovers of learning to check out our fantastic materials.

Non-IU community members may apply for a free library card at the WERC front desk or Schurz Library circulation desk. We require you to bring the following:

  • a valid Indiana ID (e.g. Indiana state issued driver's license)
  • two pieces of mail, received in the last two months, as proof of address

Faculty, staff, and students may renew materials by calling the WERC front desk or online using the MY ACCOUNT feature of IUCAT: http://iucat.iu.edu/authenticate.cgi?status=MyAccount

Last reviewed: 04/2024