With the current emphasis on STEM (S.T.E.M: Science, Technology, Electronics and Math) learning, the Library System of Lancaster County formed a partnership with Lancaster-based make717 Innovation Center** this past fall. One component of this partnership, in addition to the availability of STEM Maker Passes to the make717 Innovation Center, is to increase technical educational resources by offering STEM programs at our local public libraries.
These STEM programs and Library Maker Fests that may be of interest to young learners, high school students, post-graduates, residents who may be underemployed or seeking to improve their current job status. Public libraries and the bookmobile in addition to programs and events also have increased their collection with items in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math that are ready for checkout.
Program Descriptions
Learn to Solder is a hands-on experience that uses a soldering iron and solder to attach parts to a circuit board. Participants will assemble a soldering badge with flashing LEDs which they will get to take home with them. Led by electronic technicians, students of Thaddeus Stevens College’s electronic program, or volunteers from make717, this session works best with middle school age or older but others can accomplish the task. Participants work one-on-one with an experienced helper and the assembly takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
3-D Printing Demo
Volunteers with make717 will be on hand at the library to demonstrate what 3-D printing is all about. All ages are welcome with proper adult supervision.
Laser Cutting (Ages 8 – 18)
Volunteers with make717 will be on hand at the library to demonstrate what laser engraving is all about. All ages are welcome with proper adult supervision. Learn a little about lasers, computer control of machinery, design software, safe operation of a laser cutter. After all that learning, engrave a dog tag and take it home.
Maker Fests
Join make717 and others at a local “Make Fest”. Explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) with an integrated, hands-on approach!
Schedule of STEM Programs & Events at Public Libraries
Laser Cutting Demo
Wednesday, March 29
6:30 – 8:00 pm
Manheim Township Public Library
Laser Cutting Demo
Wednesday, April 5
7:00 – 8:30 pm
Ephrata Public Library
Maker Fest
Saturday, April 8
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Quarryville Library
Maker Fests
Saturday, April 15
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Manheim Township Public Library
Learn to Solder
Wednesday, April 19
4:30 pm
Lancaster Public Library EAST – Leola Branch
Learn to Solder
Friday, April 28
3:30 – 5:00 pm
Lititz Public Library
Maker Fest
Saturday, May 13
1:00 – 4:00 pm
Lancaster Public Library
Learn to Solder
Thursday, May 18
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Quarryville Library
STEM Fest
Saturday, May 20
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Eastern Lancaster County Library (New Holland)
Miniature Lathe Demonstration
Saturday, June 10
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
Pequea Valley Public Library
Maker Fest
Saturday, June 17
10:00 am – 12:00 noon
Milanof-Schock Library (Mount Joy)
**The make717 Innovation Center is a well-equipped facility where independent project-based learning can happen. The Public Libraries and the Bookmobile will loan STEM Maker passes for use at the Center. These passes will allow library patrons to visit the facility where they will learn how to use hi-tech equipment and have access to a variety of commercial and open source software.
For more information about the STEM Maker Pass, please visit: stempass.make717.org
This project is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education through the Office of Commonwealth Libraries, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Tom Wolf, Governor.
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