By Erica Thomas, managing editor
SPRINGVILLE — The Springville Public Library is now offering STEM materials to children, thanks to a grant by the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
The $20,000 grant supplied over 700 materials, according to Library Technician Sarah Reese.
“We’re really excited about it,” said Reese. “We’ve got most of it out at this point.”
Members of the library can use the science, technology, engineering and mathematics items at the library or at home. The activity boxes, Playaway Launchpads, games, and activities are offered for all kids.
“These are all on different grade levels so, if you’ve got a family with preschoolers or little kids, this is something they can enjoy,” said Reese.
Pre-loaded learning tablets also offer ACT prep.
Each box or bag includes reading materials and activities. Some examples include pre-reading, money counting, magnetic math, building science, solar system sets, anatomy and circuit sets.
The activities, mostly made up of products by Lakeshore Learning, offer problem-solving training and real-world skills.
Reese said there will be more coming soon to the STEM learning experience.
“Upcoming, they aren’t ready yet, but we have microscopes,” she said. “We’re going to introduce those with a microscope training class and we will have some other family STEM nights that we’re going to do.”
Anyone living in St. Clair County can get a library card to the Springville Public Library free. Anyone living outside of St. Clair County can join for $25 a year.