Online Research: Do-It-Yourself

The Bensenville Community Public Library subscribes to a variety of online research products and databases that offer up-to-date, reliable information on a wide range of topics, including: genealogy, business, history, homework help, auto repairs, and more.

All of our searchable resources are available for use in the library or from home. Hover over the images below to see a description about each database. You may also narrow or filter your search by clicking on our list of research subjects.

• For some resources, you may be asked to enter the 14-digit barcode (starting with 21437…) on the back of your Bensenville Community Public Library card, along with your PIN number. Need help? Please call us at (630) 766-4642.

Offers a wealth of information to help diagnose, repair, and maintain cars and vehicles. Includes service and repair procedures, diagrams, recall information, specifications, labor estimates, and parts pricing.

Buying advice, product ratings, reviews, recommendations, money-saving advice and tips, and videos for products including appliances, electronics, food, and more.

Crafting Resources:

Art and Crafts Shows Net — Search for an arts/crafts show, festival, or fair by dates, city, state, or region.

Crafting with your kids — A directory of more than 500 kids arts and crafts activities, by type of activity. Find kids painting ideas, drawing activities, sculpture projects, collage activities, and more!

Crochet Guild of America — Dedicated to the art of crocheting.

Fave Crafts — Free craft projects, home decor ideas, and DIY tips. New projects and tips added every day.

Free Patterns — Free online patterns for your projects.

Jo-Ann Project Archive — Library of projects for knitters, quilters, crafters, and more.

Michaels, the Arts & Crafts Store — Floral and handcrafted project ideas.

Pinterest — Arts and crafts inspiration! Organize your project ideas and get fresh inspiration.

Quilt.com — Quilting information for the novice, expert, and all those in between.

WoolWorks — Projects for hand-knitters.

Home Resources:

Better Homes and Gardens — An online companion to the magazine.

Handyman USA — Tips, articles, and an “ask an expert” feature.

HGTV — Official site of the cable television network.

Martha Stewart Home — Tips, techniques, and inspiration for home keeping.

This Old House — Official site for the television program.

Rachael Ray — Rachael’s official website and home to more than 5,000 of her recipes, and more.

DIY Network — Shows, how-to’s, sweepstakes, videos, and more from the Do-It-Yourself Network.

Research Subjects

Narrow and filter your search