STEAM/ Maker Kits

Type of Pilot Project:

Public Service

Describe Project and Impact:

The Metropolitan Library system has a unique opportunity to fill in the gaps and support our school district by providing access to hands-on science, technology, engineering, art/ design, and math (STEAM) learning tools.

Project Description and Expected Outcomes:

Twelve STEAM/ Maker kits will be created to be used with Belle Isle Library's current Teen Space after school program, as well as available to be loaned to other libraries within the system. These kits are mobile and can be taken to schools throughout the metro by librarians performing outreach within the community. The supplies for each kit has been selected and include a range of equipment from screen printing kits to programmable circuit boards. The beauty of the equipment selected for each kit is that it enables our members to create an open ended project that promotes problem solving, critical thinking, and making skills - not just an experiment or craft that is completed in one program.

Why should we select this project?:

This is an excellent opportunity to expand partnerships with schools and an exciting way to facilitate discovery in the library.

Constraints, Limitations, or Dependencies:

Costs, training, and rapidly evolving technology

Source of Inspiration:

Pioneer Library System, Plano Public Library, Coding the Library webinar, University of Oklahoma's One U Store, and collaboration with Leanne Cheek who developed the STEAM kits for Pioneer Public Library System.

Performance Indicators:

Market Penetration

Member Retention

Environment:

Library

Relationship:

Build

Experience:

Playful Learning

Cluster:

Bright Future

Rising Stars

Estimated Costs

Personnel:

Commodities:

$2,150

Contractual (Professional Services):

Capital (Construction/Renovations):

Total:

$2,150.00