New San Diego library program aims to engage kids with science, computers
A new program aimed at encouraging children ages 9 to 12 to get interested in computers, math and science launches next week at all 36 branches of the San Diego library system.
Called “Spring into STEAM,” the program will offer workshops in March, April and May. It begins March 2.
“We know that science education is so important now, and technology is changing so fast,” said Misty Jones, library director. “We see this as a way to get kids involved, to expose them to new ideas and help them explore the world around them.”
STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art and math, and there will be workshops in each area. This year’s theme is “Bug Out!” so the science workshop will feature an entomologist explaining the survival strategies of insects. The engineering workshop will focus on bees as builders. For math, the kids will explore spatial geometry by making 3-D paper insects.
Participants in other workshops will learn computer coding, create a light using a Mason jar, or build bugs using pipe cleaners, LED lights and batteries.
Jones said she’s also excited about the opportunity for children to participate in the International Barcode of Life project, which is trying to create a digital catalog of every species on Earth. Kids in San Diego can ask for free bug collection kits at their local libraries beginning March 2. Specimens they collect can then be sent in for DNA identification.
Scientists hope the digital catalog eventually will be used to “protect our planet’s biodiversity and promote human health and well-being” by helping to solve a variety of problems in such areas as pest control, resource management and food production.
More information about “Spring into STEAM” is available by phoning (619) 236-5800, emailing weblibrary@sandiego.gov or going online to sandiego.gov/public-library.
Jones said it is unusual for every library branch to be involved in the same programming at the same time. “It’s something we’ve been striving to do, and I think it’s just the beginning of the opportunities we will be able to offer,” she said.
The library hopes to make “Spring into STEAM” an annual program.
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