Youth in grades K-12 spend an astounding 81% of their time in informal learning environments outside of school. Libraries are a locus of informal learning. As the number of STEM related careers continues to multiply, libraries can play a key role in fostering the interest and excitement for STEM learning that may be missing in schools. Through the generous support of a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Kitsap Regional Library System (KRL) has developed a ready-to-use system that empowers libraries of all sizes to become community STEM leaders. If you feel like an "accidental STEM librarian" and are wondering how to get started, staff at this semi-rural library system will share fresh ideas and hands-on, practical advice for planning and implementing impactful programs. Learn how to take the lead with informal learning for youth and families in your community.

Presenters: From Kitsap Regional Library, Shannon Peterson, Youth Services Manager and Seth Ciotti, BiblioTEC Program Manager

This webinar is hosted in collaboration with the Association for Rural & Small Libraries.

Access Recording

• View Recording (You will be prompted to login to our free Course Catalog.)

Webinar Attachments

• View Slides (pdf)
• View Chat (xls)
• View Captions (txt)
• Learner Guide (doc) Use alone or with others to extend your learning.
• Document 1: Discover Your Community
  
• Document 2: Play Package Template
  
• Document 3: Example BITS Play Package

Related Resources and Links

New: Kitsap Regional Library created a project website and downloadable guide to serve as a primary resource for those interested in STEM programming for and with youth. 

• Read webinar recap
• Association for Rural & Small Libraries
• 2016 Finalist, IMLS National Medal for Library Service, Kitsap Regional Library
• Carol Dweck - Mindset: the new psychology of success
  
• Annie E. Casey Foundation. Kids Count Data Center. http://datacenter.kidscount.org/
• Ready by 21. Program Landscape Mapping Packet. http://www.readyby21.org/resources/program-landscape-mapping-packet
• U.S. Department of Education. Data and Research. http://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/landing.jhtml?src=image
• Work Group for Community Health and Development. “Assessing Community Needs and Resources Toolbox” Community Toolbox. University of Kansas. http://ctb.ku.edu/en/assessing-community-needs-and-resources
• David P. Weikart Center for Youth Program Quality. Youth Works Methods Series (Fee based print materials and online training). http://www.cypq.org/products_and_services/training/YWM
• MIT Media Lab. Family Creative Learning Facilitation Guide. http://family.media.mit.edu/
  
• SEARCH Institute. Parent Further. http://www.parentfurther.com/
• Ready by 21. Building Blocks for Effective Change: Broader Partnerships, Bigger Goals, Better Data, and Bolder Actions. http://www.readyby21.org/toolkits
• Remake Learning. “The Learning Network.” Remake Learning Playbook. http://remakelearning.org/playbook
• STEM Ecosystems. Key Resources. http://stemecosystems.org/resources/?resource-category=key-resources
• We learned in chat about Bus Stop Socials hosted by the Newport News Public Library System and their partners
• STEM programming ideas:
  • STEM Resources on YALSA wiki
  • Making for STEM Success, by Meredith Farkas in American Libraries
  • STEM and STEAM Library Programs on Pinterest