The Hidden Resource:
You may be familiar with many of the materials that you have access to at our library, such as books, CD's, audio-books, magazines, and DVDs. But are you familiar with the array of resources that are available electronically? Do you know what an electronic resource is? For those of you who are willing to take a journey into the vast world of electronic resources, this blog series is for you.
Resources - Idaho Resources
We have organized some of our important state resources to accommodate the need for our residents to conduct their business online. The websites detailed below will help you navigate through the different areas. Please feel free to ask for assistance from a staff member at the library if you get lost.
Congressional Records
According to their website, "Congress.gov is the official website for U.S. federal legislative information. The site provides access to accurate, timely, and complete legislative information for Members of Congress, legislative agencies, and the public." The congressional records site also states: "After each day that Congress is in session, the proceedings are printed in the Congressional Record (CR) and available the following morning." On this site you can also download an app for your phone, sign up for email alerts, or print/save.
Idaho Driving Tests
"These apps have been created by the Idaho Transportation Department/Division of Motor Vehicles to assist you in developing safe driving knowledge and will test your comprehension of information found in the Idaho Driver’s Manual." You can take the driver's practice test and it is available in English and in Spanish. The Idaho Driver's Manual is also available to study. Check out the Idaho Driving Tests site today!
Idaho Tax Commission
"The Tax Commission informs taxpayers about their obligations so everyone can pay their fair share of taxes, and it must enforce Idaho's laws to ensure the fairness of the tax system with those who don't voluntarily comply." The Idaho State Tax Commission site includes forms and guides available to download or print. It has the option to check your refund status. It also has ways to e-file and e-pay. The website is so informative, actually, that I recommend exploring it yourself; you may be surprised at everything you can find!
Idaho Voter Registration
Idaho Votes provides official voting information for the citizens of Idaho. The website includes helpful tools on voting, voting accessibility, steps to becoming a poll worker, frequently asked questions, and other resources. Something that I found really helpful was all the forms that are provided right through the website. It makes it really easy to educate yourself on the best ways to become the most informed voting citizen you can, encouraging you to grow stronger with each election that passes.
Your Health Idaho
"Your Health Idaho is an online marketplace that allows Idaho families and small businesses to shop, compare, and choose the health insurance coverage that’s right for them." The Your Health Idaho website includes information on how to get coverage, has options to serve current customers, and includes helpful additional resources. You can also find an agent, broker, or enrollment counselor to talk to for free. If you lost your job-related insurance during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for a special enrollment period through Your Health Idaho. See if you qualify!
i-Court
While Idaho is still transitioning from the ISTARS system to the i-court system, you have to search through both systems for your records. However, the website states that "i-Court will provide improved access to electronic court records, hearing schedules, court documents, e-filing and more. This new system will also provide tools to improve business practices amongst justice partners by providing around-the-clock access to court information, reduce costs from handling and storing paper files, streamline court processes, and deliver better information for judicial decision-making." Once the transition process is complete, Idaho residents should be able to check the court system entirely through the iCourt portal.
Need Help?
Not everyone is comfortable or familiar with online databases, and that's where your local librarians can help. Call us during our open hours and we can guide you through using any of our electronic services or drop in and use one of our computers or bring in your device and we can assist you as needed.
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