Teens, Explore Your Future in STEAM with Free Library Events

Teens, Explore Science, Technology and More and a Future in STEAM! The Rock Island Public Library is pleased to again be a recipient of a Fiscal Year 2025 Library Services and Technology Grant of $5,950 for Project Next Generation science programming.

The library's Your Future in STEAM programming for ages 12 to 18 provides free ongoing education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM.) The grant support is provided through the Illinois State Library, Office of the Secretary of State, pursuant to 23 Ill. Adm. Code 3035.Subpart G: Library Services and Technology Act Grants (LSTA.)

A new season of free STEAM programming kicks off with Teen Coding Night on Monday, Sept. 16. The free event is offered from 4:30 pm to 6 pm at the Rock Island Library Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road. Teens ages 12 to 18 will learn basic computer coding by making a project that involves lights, circuits, and more. It uses a Base Coding Kit, and is great for beginners.

Later in September, the library offers 3D Printing Nights, where teens can try out the library's 3D printing pens. The free drop-in creation sessions are all offered from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on the following dates and Rock Island Public Library locations:

• Friday, Sept. 20 at the Downtown Library, 401 19^th Street,
• Monday, Sept. 23 at Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30^th Street, and
• Monday, Sept. 30, at the Southwest Branch, 9010 Ridgewood Road.

All three events are provided on a free, drop-in basis. No registration is required.

For more information about library services and upcoming events for a wide range of ages, visit the library website, call 309-732-READ, or follow the Rock Island Library Facebook and Instagram social media sites.