Check out STEMlab virtual programs (on the current events section of the website) to learn various technological, biological, chemical, and physics topics, forensics, anatomy & physiology, robotics/circuitry, microbiology and more as well as the scientific method for such enterprises. For teachers and librarians, the STEMlab staff tests various types and pieces of equipment and procedures and provide training and curriculum. Staff follow NSTA curriculum standards for teachers and librarians.
Libraries can BORROW materials for use in STEM programming at their library! Please see the instructions on this page for further information or contact ra-edmakerspace@pa.gov with any questions.
Information For...
Lending Library
The State Library of Pennsylvania STEMlab has begun offering a full lending library of STEM resources for public and school libraries.
Starting July 2024, library staff across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania can place requests to borrow kits, books, and materials that can be used to present STEM-powered library programs for children or adults.
These materials include Lego and other robotics sets, windmills, balsa racers, single board computers (SBCs) like Arduino and Raspberry Pi, and many others. In addition, the STEMlab contains both STEM-based children’s books and curriculum/activity titles, which are also circulated. These materials are ready for your library to borrow and plan for a literacy-based STEM program.
To see the STEM resources available for your library, use the Discovery Collections tab at the State Library catalog or go directly to the STEMlab Collection.
When you find items you would like to borrow for a six-week lending period, request the materials by completing the online STEMlab Interlibrary Loan form. State Library staff can prepare a shipment for you to sample and learn the material and/or use it in your program.
The STEMlab continues to offer training and programs on STEM topics for Pennsylvanians and library staff. The training includes train-the-trainer models, information, and practice with materials available to borrow, and topical bimonthly sessions. In addition, STEMlab library personnel will accept requests to arrange virtual or onsite library staff training, team building, and resources for staff to develop in-depth STEM knowledge. Refer to the PA Library Staff Academy to find past and future recorded trainings. Most trainings conducted by or under the auspices of the STEMlab are recorded and shared there. You can also find the resources and trainings linked on the STEMlab Libguide. Topics range from biofuels to DNA to math for kids. Look for new topics to be added frequently.
The STEMlab supports library training and programming needs at no cost to your local library. Contact STEMlab staff for assistance with programs and other questions, at RA-EDMAKERSPACE@pa.gov.