San Diego County Libraries offers numerous opportunities for customers to learn about and engage with the latest in technology from computer coding programs to science activities and STEAM events.
CODING
Larger initiatives such as the Hour of Code, which was celebrated in December and aimed at exposing kids to coding, was held at 14 library branches. The Encinitas Library hosts a weekly Girls Who Code program to encourage more girls to learn coding languages and consider the tech industry as a career path. Other libraries that host regular coding programs include Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Jacumba, and Lakeside.
STEAM
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) programming introduces science as a multidisciplinary experience and encourages kids to become scientists by formulating hypothesis, exploring different concepts and having fun! STEAM (sometimes referred to as STEM without the Art) programming is held at the following branches: Alpine, Bonita, Encinitas, Fletcher Hills, Lakeside, Rancho San Diego, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach, and Spring Valley. SDCL offers additional programming opportunities including Ozobot Kits and Playstation 4 virtual reality.
3D PRINTING
Customers looking for design and 3-D printing opportunities are in luck! With 3-D printers available at 7 branches, visitors can attend a program to learn how to 3-D print or explore on their own during public hours; there is a charge of $.15 per gram for items printed. 3-D printing uses the creation process to teach design and introduction to CAD type programs.
“I like seeing kids and teens reactions when they see the design they created on the computer come to life with the 3D printer,” said Chris Curley who leads the 3-D printing programs at the Poway Library.
Branches with Science & Technology Programs:
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