San Diego Public Library’s Spring into STEAM program provides hands-on learning for local youth

Free workshops dig into the past for important science lessons

SAN DIEGO – Providing opportunities for young people to learn and explore, the 7th annual Spring into STEAM challenge is underway at the San Diego Public Library (SDPL). The science-focused program kicks off this month with a unique, project-based educational experience to strengthen students’ STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) skills.

This year’s theme “Dig in!” encourages kids to discover the world beneath their feet and learn about the plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. The workshops will teach youth about geology and the rock cycle, the process of fossilization and ancient artifacts.

Spring into STEAM programs are free and geared toward kids ages 9 to 12. The workshops will be offered in March, April and May, both virtually and in-person at San Diego Public Library locations. The programs are a collaboration between SDPL and local science experts and organizations including The San Diego Natural History Museum, Hands-on Technology, Toshwerks and the Fleet Science Center.

There are four workshops to choose from:

• DIG IN with the Nat: Examine real fossils, learn how they’re formed and found and hear what’s it’s like to work as a paleontologist.
• Fossil Fun: Learn about the process of fossilization and create a fossil by embedding a dinosaur, insect or plant in faux amber.
• Geology Rocks: Explore what the earth is made of by testing rock hardness and simulating the rock cycle.
• San Diego Jones, A Virtual Reality Adventure: Explore ancient ruins around the world using virtual and augmented reality technology.

All youth who participate in a Spring into STEAM program will receive a “Prehistoric Amber” activity kit. For more information and to register, visit sandiego.gov/STEAM.

With a vision of being the place for opportunity, discovery and inspiration, the San Diego Public Library is a hub for knowledge and lifelong learning. As the largest library system in the region, it serves a population of more than 1.4 million people. Learn about events at the San Diego Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Jacobs Common and 35 community branch libraries, find links to programs and resources or search for materials in the online catalog at www.sandiegolibrary.org.

(City of San Diego Release)