STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, is a buzzword meant to encourage students, educators, and dreamers to experiment, learn, and grow in the STEM fields. (Or in the STEAM fields--the additional A stands for Art.) STEM is all about learning new things and creating new opportunities, especially for younger innovators. STEM is also usually focused on trying to get under-represented groups into STEM fields--helping these fields become better by becoming as diverse as our world.
STEM/STEAM initiatives are important because they help shape how today's students influence tomorrow's future. Giving everyone a chance to succeed in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math means we have a better chance of creating a better world in the future, when those students make breakthroughs in the STEM/STEAM fields. We can create the opportunities, and provide the resources, for the world's next great inventor, or doctor, or boundary-breaking astronaut.
At the Alachua County Library District, we believe strongly in providing resources and opportunities for all of our patrons. We have a number of recurring and one-off STEM/STEAM programs for learners of all ages. Some of the programs in November are:
- ARTSpace, Waldo Branch: weekly, Thursdays, 4-5 PM, AND Saturdays, 2-3 PM. November's dates include Visual Journaling, DIY Tote Bags, Mandala Mosaics, and Origami Ornaments. Registration Required.
- Marvelous Makers, Alachua Branch: weekly, Sundays, 1-3 PM. Meet other makers and work on your projects.
- Makerspace Presents: Stitch Craft for Adults, Headquarters: November 12th, 4-6:30 PM. Learn to use a sewing machine, or bring your own project to work on with other stitchers.
- LegoSpace, Tower Road Branch: monthly, every second Wednesday, 2-3 PM. On November 13th, the project is Ramps and Slides.
- Homeschool MakerSpace, Archer Branch: monthly, every third Thursday, 11-12:15 PM. Art and science adventures.
- Creativity Lab, Archer Branch: monthly, fourth Saturdays, 2-3:30 PM. Explore a different craft or science activity each month.
- The Fold, Newberry Branch: monthly, last Wednesdays, 3:15-4 PM. Origami club.
As always, we recommend exploring the full events calendar for the Library District to explore what's available, and find the programs you want to try.
But of course, we have even more resources to help you in your exploration of STEM/STEAM fields. Creativebug has crafty lessons across multiple disciplines. LinkedIn Learning will help you master technological advances, software, coding, website building, and more. Learning Express will help you prepare for assessments and exams to move forward in your chosen field. There's even ChiltonLibrary, to help you learn car repairs! Check out our full database list to see which of our online resources could work best for you.
If you want to bring the fun of library programming to the ease of your home, you can also check out our STEM Kits! STEM Kits are aimed at elementary-aged children and can include age-appropriate scientific equipment, activities, science games, or any combination of the above. STEM Kits cover topics as diverse as birding, rockets, and the human body. Follow the link to see all of the STEM Kits available with the Alachua County Library District!
We've also compiled a list in our catalog of exciting, relevant STEM titles. We've included how-to science guides, biographies of STEM pioneers, and books for adults to help their children explore STEM/STEAM titles. This booklist is focused on juvenile STEM/STEAM, but you can always check out our catalog to find thousands more STEM/STEAM titles.