This summer, 14 Vermont libraries turn into science labs, where kids can build solar-powered plastic creatures and make electrical circuits from conductive play dough. The Spark a Culture of Innovation program is responsible for the transformation. This Vermont Department of Libraries initiative is aimed at introducing kids to Vermont's DIY "maker" movement. Representatives from Vermont Makers, Champlain Mini Maker Faire, and the University of Vermont's College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences collaborated to produce lessons on e-textiles, e-origami, toy hacking, squishy circuits and "creature creations." Each participating library will select two of the topics and receive curriculum and materials to keep, courtesy of a grant from the Vermont Community Foundation. Don't see your library on the list of participants below? All of the curricula will be available to every Vermont library for free online by the end of the summer.
Spark a Culture of Innovation: Grant recipients are Aldrich Public Library, Barre; Bennington Free Library; Castleton Free Library; Charlotte Library; Craftsbury Public Library; Fairfax Community Library; Groton Free Public Library; Jericho Town Library/Deborah Rawson Memorial Library, Underhill; Poultney Public Library; Quechee Public Library; Arvin A. Brown Public Library, Richford; and Doroth Alling Memorial Library, Williston. Find more information at STEAM-e-ZINE.com.
