NAHANT — The Nahant Public Library is rolling out new learning tools and activities as a part of the national STEAM Everywhere, Every day initiative.
Science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, or STEAM learning is becoming a primary focus for kids coming to the library, and features the upcoming event Take Your Child to the Library Day next Saturday.
“Our goal is to help young families serve as their children’s first teachers, and to let them know that science, technology, engineering, arts, and math are not abstract concepts, but opportunities to learn that surround us everywhere,” said Nahant Public Library director, Sharon Hawkes.
Some of the library’s newest learning toys include Bee-Bots, which children can program to travel in certain directions using buttons on the top. Also, KEVA planks are thin wooden blocks that children can use to build, with infinite possibilities.
The library has also expanded its children’s learning backpack collection, which includes backpacks filled with puzzles, books, music makers, and other toys that children can use at the library or check out and bring home.
“It’s awesome,” said children’s librarian Kim Carmody-Hosker. “It’s all about giving the kids new opportunities.”
The new free toys, books, and events coming this year were possible through federal funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. Additional funding was also provided by the Friends of Nahant Public Library.
“The grant has been a wonderful kickstarter,” Carmody-Hosker said.
The Take Your Child to the Library Day will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday Feb. 3, introducing the public to the new STEAM opportunities and activities the library will be offering.
