STEM Programming for All Ages: A Practical Guide for Librarians

Practical guides for librarians

by Chantale Pard

STEM! You’ve probably heard of it by Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. STEM programming took the library world by storm in 2013, and is still going strong today. Don’t let this trendy programming theme fool you, though - STEM skills are more than just a fad; they are essential. With the constant evolution in both our communities and in technology, libraries will need to make sure they stay STEM-literate in the face of these changes, so they can help their communities thrive. This book will show new and exciting examples of how libraries are implementing STEM education. You’ll also learn how to start or improve your own STEM programming with little or no budget, even if you’re not a scientist or mathematician.

Special features
STEAM What’s in the “A”? Are libraries doing this already? Real examples of current and successful STEM programs created by librarians. Clear, concise instructions for incorporating STEM skills into your regular series, one-off, or outreach programming for all budget ranges and age groups.Breaking down barriers – providing STEM programs for underserved populations such as newcomers and young girls. Engaging your community to make the most out of possible STEM based partnerships and resources. Pop culture program samples -- learn how pop culture STEM programs aim to include more than just your self-proclaimed budding scientists in their appeal, and ideally inspire a wider range of children to imagine what their own STEM-skilled futures might look like. This magical mix of exciting, trendy and educational programs will have a wide range of kids saying “Mom, you have to take me to the library!”.

186 pages, Paperback

Published August 15, 2018

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Public Librarian should have this resource in their stack of helpful books:
It covers getting started, preschool, school age, adults, teens, diversity, partnerships, passive and all ages.
One of the invaluable tips of this book is that it uses pop-culture to make the technology and or "stem" part of the programs more contemporary: minion bananas makey makey.
Another really helpful tip is that the author has included the website, sources, companies and prices to buy x kits.
The getting started portion focuses on budgeting, types, ages, supplies, staff training and community involvement.

The Preschool STEM includes:
-squishy circuits, magnets, Little codr, cubetto coding robot; among others

School Age STEM includes:
-LEGO, fidget spinners, squishy circuits and makey makey;

All Ages STEM includes:
-Free Comic Book Day, Cosplay Contests, Escape Rooms, Green Screen, Super Hero Costume Construction, Cardboard Cities, Virtual Reality;

Adults:
-Computer Training, Fake News, Lego Speed Dating, Screen Print Cards;

Teens:
-Button Maker, Harry Potter LED wands, among others; (for some odd reason, Slime was in the teen programs....)

Partnerships:
-offers up examples including using a parent who is a paleontologist, joining up with the library craft group; and presenters like Mad Science;

It briefly touches on Diversity (Girls in Technology, LGBTQ alliances/activism), and Passive Programming (Displays, Library Play Areas);