Library programs explain ways to pay for college
By Susan Greenwood www.naperville-lib.org January 30, 2013 2:52PM
Updated: March 2, 2013 6:07AM
It’s never too early to think about how to pay for college. With tuition and fees increasing every year, it’s important for both parents and students to learn about financing this important investment. Events that present an overview of state and federal aid programs as well as assistance in filling out the online FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will be offered at the Naperville Public Library.
“The process of financing a college education is complicated, that’s why we’re offering these programs,” explains Kiersten Doucette, teen librarian at the Nichols Library.
“We think this will be very helpful for both teens and their parents. There are lots of complicated things in life, and this is an opportunity for both students and their parents to work on something together in a comfortable, familiar setting.”
Kiersten emphasizes that there’s no need to attend both programs.
“The first session is a general overview and is helpful to anyone looking for ways to pay for college,” she says. “The second session is really for 12th-graders and their families who have or are applying for college.”
ISAC representatives will present ISAC Financial Aid Process & Overview. They will outline the financial aid process, identify trusted sources of information, summarize state and federal aid programs, and introduce the 2013-2014 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Dates and locations for the first session are: 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Blvd.; and 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4, Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave.
During the second session, FAFSA Assistance, parents and students will actually fill out FAFSA forms. Computers will be available and an ISAC representative will be there to help.
Bring your completed 2011 or 2012 tax forms, including W-2s, you’ll need them for the online FAFSA application. Also bring Social Security cards for parents and student, driver’s licenses, and current investment information. This program is for 12th-graders and their families who have or are applying for college.
Program dates and locations are: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 13, 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive; 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20, Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave.; and 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Blvd.
Participation is limited and registration is required at www.naperville-lib.org/TeenSpaceHome#1
Can’t attend these sessions? The library can still help. Talk with adult services staff members.
Susan Greenwood is the community relations coordinator at the Naperville Public Library. Contact her at 630-961-4100, ext. 2223, or greenwood@naperville-lib.org.
