The Garden City Public Library is grateful and excited to announce that it has received a grant through the Science Kits for Public Library Program. This $2000 grant was made possible by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) – Chicago Section. The purpose of the grant is to focus on the development of circulating math and science kit collections.
The Library has already reached success with implementing STEM programs like Maker Monday, an hour long program in which children would learn about specific STEM topics and perform activities or create crafts based off that topic. These programs were some of the highest attended during Summer Reading and, due to their popularity, the Library made the decision to continue Maker Monday during the school year where it has attracted more excited children to learn about STEM.
With the grant generously donated by IEEE, the Library created new science kits in order to continue youth exploration into the STEM fields. These kits focus on the four branches of engineering- civil, electrical, mechanical and chemical. The Library also offers kits that focus on building math skills and kits that address current key aspects in the field, including Women in Engineering.
While the majority of the kits are aimed at children ages 3-12, there are kits focused on advanced engineering intended for teens. Every kit contains a book, an interactive manipulative and a Library created workbook with activities for home.
The proposal for this grant was painstakingly put together by Garden City Public Library’s Youth Services Librarian Erin Look. Her dedication to raising awareness and interest in STEM programming in the Garden City made this project possible.
Each kit circulates for one week and are available for checkout today!
