Summer STEAM Programs

Learning doesn’t stop just because school is out! Keep learning this summer by exploring the solar system, practicing your engineering skills, or creating music with coding at the library.

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Not only do we provide books and resources on these topics, but many library programs reinforce learning in these subject areas. We love STEAM learning because it helps develop and integrate the critical thinking skills of the Sciences along with the creative thinking skills of the Arts. Here are just a few we have coming up in July, but be sure to check our events calendar for more in the future!

For Kids

Lego Block Build 
Fairfield Library
Mondays in July, 2:30 pm
Enjoy an afternoon of building with your favorite blocks! Various block types will be provided. Grades K-5.

Explore the Solar SySTEM
Tuckahoe Library
Wednesdays July 10, 17, 24, 6:30 pm
In this three-week series we will explore the sun, moon, planets and stars through fun STEM related activities and crafts. Preschool-Grade 5.

Exploring the Universe through Music and Art
Varina Library
Thursday, July 11, 3:00 pm
Connect to the cosmos through your senses! Explore the sights and sounds inspired by celestial bodies using music technology and art. Grades K-6.

Mad Scientists' Club
Glen Allen Library
Wednesday, July 17, 4:00 pm
Explore science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, hands-on activities. Grades 3-7.

For Teens

DIY Cosmic Bath Bomb
North Park Library
Monday, July 15, 2:00 pm
Sometimes, you just want to soak in a fizzy, rainbow-colored bath. We will DIY cosmic bath bombs for that far out(er space) feeling. Grades 4+. Registration required.

Makey Makey Keyboards
Sandston Library
Thursday, July 17, 6:30 pm
Use simple coding software (Scratch) to program a playable keyboard made from recycled materials and then play a song on it! Grades 4+.

Astronaut Boot Camp
Libbie Mill Library
Tuesday, July 16, 2:00 pm
Can you handle the life of an astronaut? Find out if you've got what it takes. We'll be dressing, eating, and thinking like astronauts in a series of fun and fast-paced challenges. Prizes will be awarded to individual challenge winners, but everyone graduates from Astronaut Bootcamp with a certificate in the end. Grades 6+. Registration required.

Remember, you can also earn a Summer Reading badge by attending a library program… and grab a book or two while you are there!