The VECTR Library is a collaborative project led by experts from Penn State Extension, University of Tennessee, and The Ohio State University. It's funded by Penn State Extension and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our team consists of entomologists, vector specialists, extension educators, and public health professionals dedicated to improving education about vectors and vector-borne diseases.

The VECTR Library includes a wide variety of educational materials such as fact sheets, lesson plans, infographics, videos, webinar recordings, slides, podcasts, community science projects, and training materials. These resources cover different vector groups, species, diseases, and control methods, and are designed for various audiences from the general public to specialized professionals.

You can search the VECTR Library using various categories including vector group (such as mosquitoes, ticks, or fleas), specific vector species, material type (like videos, fact sheets, or lesson plans), target audience, or source type. Use the search function to find exactly what you need, or browse by category to explore available resources. Check out the "search tips" section of the website for more information.

Yes, the VECTR Library is a free resource designed to support public health, education, and vector control efforts. All materials in the database are freely accessible, though some linked resources may have their own usage terms that should be followed.

The VECTR Library is regularly updated as new materials become available. Our team constantly reviews and adds resources from extension services, public health agencies, and academic sources to ensure the database remains current and comprehensive.

Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens (such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites) that are transmitted to humans and animals through the bites of infected arthropod vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other biting arthropods. Examples include Lyme disease, West Nile virus, malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus.

The VECTR Library includes information on a wide range of vectors including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, lice, kissing bugs, biting midges, sand flies, and others. You can search for general vector groups or specific species.

Yes, the VECTR Library includes resources on vectors and vector-borne diseases that affect both humans and animals. This includes zoonotic diseases (those that can be transmitted between animals and humans) as well as pathogens/diseases that primarily affect livestock, pets, or wildlife. The database also includes related pests like keds and bed bugs.

We welcome contributions of high-quality education, communication, or training materials related to vectors and vector-borne diseases. If you or your organization has developed resources that could benefit others, please check out our "how to contribute" section of this website. All submissions will be reviewed for quality, accuracy, and relevance before being added to the database.

We're interested in collaborating with organizations that share our goal of improving education and awareness about vector-borne diseases. Potential collaborations include content sharing, joint development of educational materials, cross-promotion, or research partnerships. Please contact our team to discuss potential collaboration opportunities.