Juneau Public Libraries is one of eight libraries in the United States chosen to host the interactive exhibit “Discover Tech: Engineers Make a World of Difference,” which is “a traveling exhibit exploring how technology and engineering contribute to solving national and global problems.”
The large exhibit includes 15 different sections located throughout the Mendenhall Valley Public Library. Several hands-on and interactive sections — featuring solar power, a circuit building challenge and engineering — allow kids to collaborate and be creative. The exhibit will be accompanied by a series of programs and events to bring STEM programming to children, teens and adults. It all began with an opening reception and LEGO building challenge on Saturday, Jan. 13.
“It’s like a traveling museum piece with several hands-on activities. We are so excited ‘Discover Tech’ is coming to us,” said Electronic Services and Community Outreach Librarian Andrea Hirsh. “We think people of all ages and backgrounds will find that the exhibit explores engineering and technology in a way that is understandable, inspiring and fun.”
“Discover Tech: Engineers Make a World of Difference” was organized by Space Science Institute’s National Center for Interactive Learning in partnership with the American Library Association’s Public Programs Office, the Lunar and Planetary Institute, and the Afterschool Alliance. The project was made possible through support from the National Science Foundation.
Mendenhall Valley Library is located at 3025 Riverside Drive. The exhibit is free and open to the public during library hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
The exhibit will be on display at the Mendenhall Valley Public Library until April 6.
Sachiko Marks, 4, and her dad James Marks, 36, take advantage of the educational experience work together constructing. Photos by Erin Laughlin | For the Capital City Weekly
The multi-part exhibit allows kids to experience hands-on learning that a children’s museum would offer, said Electronic Service and Community Outreach Librarian Andi Hirsh. Pictured is Sachiko Marks, age 4. Photos by Erin Laughlin | For the Capital City Weekly
Gabe Mcguan, 5, aims for a perfectly symmetrical garage during the challenge. Photos by Erin Laughlin | For the Capital City Weekly
Joshua Walker, 14, and Byron Dock, 17, enthusiastically take part in the LEGO building challenge Saturday afternoon. Photos by Erin Laughlin | For the Capital City Weekly
