Libraries go full STEAM ahead for patrons

Education that involves science, technology, engineering and math is widely known by the acronym, “STEM.” It is the big thing in education these days because it claims to prepare children for future careers in the fields that are predicted to be in highest demand. STEM education couples academic concepts with experience-based learning through an interdisciplinary approach. The initial objectives of incorporating this teaching method in schools were to enable the future workforce to compete more effectively in the global economy and to replenish the aging workforce in an increasingly innovative world market.

In recent years, the acronym has changed to STEAM by including Art, as research has shown a direct relationship between proficiency in technical/analytical concepts and participation in arts and humanities disciplines.

The East Bonner County Library District’s Sandpoint and Clark Fork Branches both offer weekly STEAM programs in the Idaho Library Association’s Make IT at The Library programs. In Sandpoint, Make It is held on Tuesdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. with open exploration of robotics, Arduino’s, Legos and fiber arts. The Clark Fork program is more structured with themed activities for a slightly younger group of kids.

Both programs are free and open to drop-in participants.

Community volunteers play an instrumental role in the ongoing success of the program. Some of the dedicated volunteers are retired science and technology teachers. One of the volunteers is a high school student, certified in Microsoft application and IT diagnostics. The other two are a home maker and professional wood craft artist.

Equally impressive are the kids who participate. One student started attending when he was just 7 years old, mentored by his grandfather. At that time, he required regular assistance with the simple drag and drop robotics coding program. Today, at 10 years of age, he has completed the robotics series several times and has moved on to designing custom “battle bots” (inspired by the television show of that name). He is now fluent in code and continues to challenge himself while mentoring others.

The discovery-based learning lab that is being built onto the Sandpoint Branch in next year’s remodel and expansion project will greatly enhance the quantity and quality of STEAM offerings available. One of the best aspects of the feature is that people of all ages will have access to it. This will naturally result in intergenerational mentoring – something we already see in our weekly programs.

Whether or not STEAM education results in a stronger national economy remains to be seen, but the impact on individual lives is something we witness every week at the library. We invite you to see for yourself by joining us at Make It or one of our 3D printing workshops for adults. To find out more about Make It and to learn how to support the creation of the discovery-based learning lab visit www.ebonnerlibrary.org.

All of the classes, workshops and events below take place at the Sandpoint Branch unless otherwise stated. View the full month’s schedule on our new events calendar at ebonnerlibrary.org.

• Saturday, Nov. 12 — Computer Class: Basic Microsoft Word. 8:15 am sharp. Learn the basics of Microsoft Word, including toolbars, formatting and highlighting. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Information: 263-6930.

• Saturday, Nov. 12 — Native Heritage Film Series: “For the Rights of All: Ending Jim Crow in Alaska”.

The first in a five-part monthly series of film screenings showcasing Native American culture; sponsored by the Idaho Mythweaver, TransEco Services, the Idaho Community Foundation and the Idaho Humanities Council. Screenings are at 12:30 and 3 p.m. A discussion will follow the showing, led by Jane Fritz of the Idaho Mythweaver. Free program. For more information, call 263-6930.

• Monday, Nov. 14 — Pajama Storytime, 6:30 p.m.; an evening family storytime with bedtime snacks.

• Tuesday, Nov. 15 — Mother Goose reading & singing; 10:15 a.m.; for ages 0-3.

• Tuesday, Nov. 15 — Preschool Story Time, 11 a.m.; for youngsters ages 2-5.

• Tuesday, Nov. 15 — Make It at the Library, 3 p.m. Makerspace activities for kids including robotics, Arduinos, Legos and fiber arts.

• Tuesday, Nov. 15 — Robotics with Lego Mindstorm, 3 p.m., for children for ages 8 on up; Clark Fork branch, 601 Main St., Clark Fork.

• Wednesday, Nov. 16 — Clark Fork Stories and More, 10:30 a.m. Stories, crafts, prizes and snacks for kids ages 3-8. East Bonner County Library District, Clark Fork branch, 601 Main St., Clark Fork.

• Wednesday, Nov. 16 — Lego Club, 2 p.m.; open creative play with Legos.

• Wednesday, Nov. 16 — Clark Fork Make It, 2 p.m.; crafts and tinkering for kids. Event held at Clark Fork branch library, 601 Main St., Clark Fork.

• Thursday, Nov. 17 — Clark Fork Crafternoon – Upcycled T-shirt totes, 3 p.m. Free family fun making tote bags to take home! At the East Bonner County Library District’s Clark Fork branch, 601 Main.

• Thursday, Nov. 17 — Safe Space, 3 p.m.; a safe space for middle school LGBTQ+ students and allies. Includes discussions, games and other activities.

• Friday, Nov. 18-Saturday, Nov. 19 — Clark Fork Friends of the Library pre-holiday book and media sale, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Pick out your holiday gifts and cozy reads at the East Bonner County Library District’s Clark Fork branch, 601 Main.

• Saturday, Nov. 19 — Computer class on Microsoft Publisher basics, 8:15 a.m. sharp. Learn to create professional looking brochures, newsletters and other documents. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Information: 263-6930.