The Bloomingdale Public Library has started a program with Lake Park High School to provide tutoring for students who need additional help with homework.

Homework Helpers matches school-age students up to sophomores with National Honor Society students from Lake Park to provide a free tutoring service, said library director Tim Jarzemsky.

The program will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday through Dec. 11 at the library, 101 Fairfield Way.

Students are responsible for bringing textbooks, calculators and other materials to complete assignments.

Jarzemsky said both the school and library benefit since the library can provide a free service and the students can fulfill their obligation for volunteering within the community.

“Public libraries often struggle with the issue of tutoring,” he said. “We are asked to provide this service and yet we have practices or policies that prohibit or limit commercial tutoring.

“At the same time, the students need a community-based volunteering activity to fulfill certain National Honor Society requirements, so it really is a win-win situation for both sides.”

Jarzemsky said the library has been working with the community and elementary and middle schools to advertise the new service.

The program, thus far, is going smoothly.

“While it is too early to judge the success at this point, we have already had several students take advantage of the program,” he said.

Chris Ward, a guidance counselor and NHS advisor at Lake Park, said 24 students will serve as tutors during the program.

The same group also holds a tutoring program at the school’s East Campus from 3 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“They can help out with really any subject, as most of the tutors are honors or (advanced placement) students,” Ward said. “If they can’t help out, I’m sure one of the others can.”

Parents may discuss their child’s needs with the tutors prior to the study session. Parents of children ages 8 and under must remain in the library.

No registration is necessary.