STEM Opportunity for Community Youth: Tinkering Kits at Your Library
The Wilcox Public Library has received a “Design, Create, Play” Tinkering kit, made possible by the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) through Pennsylvania’s Out-of-School Time project. The purpose of the Tinkering Kit project is to enhance, expand, and increase STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) programming to youth ages 8-18.
The “Design, Create, Play” Tinkering Kit provides an overview of STEAM concepts that appeal to school-age students. Youth will enjoy experimenting and testing technology with resources such as 3D pens, circuit art, and sewing circuit activities, and a digital fabricator and design software. Kit items, made available for use through library programming, will encourage multi-faceted learning styles and interests with both technology and arts activities.
“For decades libraries have been the portal for individuals to be introduced to the latest technologies and receive instruction to be proficient users of all kinds of software, hardware, and internet resources,” said Susan Banks, Acting Deputy Secretary & State Librarian. “These Tinkering Kits and the accompanying programs that libraries of all sizes can do put Maker activities in the hands of all kids across the Commonwealth. Everyone belongs in this Maker world – and libraries can help young Makers connect to their interests and dreams for the future.”
Tinkering kit items will be made available at the Wilcox Public Library during operating hours and at special programs presented by the Library. Due to the rise in COVID cases in our area, there are no scheduled programs at this time but the “Design, Create, Play” tinkering kit is still available for you to drop in and use in the library, parental/guardian participation for children under the age of 10 would be greatly appreciated for supervisory reasons and in case the child needs help with anything.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Office of Commonwealth Libraries.
Tinkering Kit Contents: