Boone County Public Library has received a $1,000 grant from the Rural Technology Fund to bring hands-on STEM learning opportunities to youth at the Chapin Memorial Library in Petersburg.
The Rural Technology Fund works to empower future technology leaders by narrowing the digital divide between rural and urban communities. The grant fully funds the purchase of three Sphero BOLT robotics kits and three Samsung Galaxy tablets, providing the Chapin Memorial Library with its first robotics equipment.
The new technology will expand access to STEM experiences including coding, robotics and digital literacy experiences closer to home for the youth in Petersburg and surrounding areas, while extending the Library’s commitment to providing hands-on technology education throughout Boone County.
The robotics kits and tablets will be used in recurring STEM workshops, drop-in technology activities, summer learning opportunities and other interactive programs. Participants will program robots, navigate obstacle courses and solve creative challenges while developing coding, problem-solving and critical thinking skills through beginner-friendly programming platforms.
“This grant opens the door to exciting new learning opportunities for the children and families we serve,” said Kaitlin Barber, Branch Manager, Chapin Memorial Library. “Thanks to this grant, our community won’t have to travel to experience robotics and coding; they’ll be able to learn, create and explore right here in their library.”
The new robotics equipment will become part of Chapin Memorial Library’s STEM programming, creating new opportunities for children and teens to explore technology, creativity and innovation throughout the year.
For more information about Boone County Public Library’s programs and services, visit bcpl.org or stop by any location.
Boone County Public Library