Library & Learning - Hand in Hand

This Month, the Whitewood Public Library

 is celebrating Love My Library Month by launching  a new initiative. 

From a pre-K to adult  scheduling of events connecting our members to science, technology, reading, engineering, and math resources in the community.  “We’re building STREAM activities into the regular programming of the library,” said Rea Weyrich, library director. “The same way that we support print and  literature, we’re also supporting STREAM literacy. While we had been doing that in bits and pieces in the past, we are now saying this is a regular part of what we do.”

For decades, public libraries have been evolving to become venues for informal science, technology, engineering, and math  (STEM) education, hosting programs and exhibits that inspire children and adults alike, and supporting them in their lifelong learning. Libraries serve diverse populations of all ages and backgrounds, and can be found in nearly every community across the United States.

Libraries across the country have been re-imagining their community role and leveraging their resources to strengthen community-based learning and foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and engagement in STREAM.  Libraries large and small are becoming essential hubs of STREAM education for people of all ages. Through free access to the internet, computers, tablets, books, DVDs, workshops and programming, libraries remove barriers to STREAM literacy and inquiry. These services are especially vital for children and youth whose families might not have the means for extracurricular enrichment opportunities.