An upcoming day of innovation and learning at Uniondale Library's STEM Saturday

On March 30, the Uniondale Library is set to host an exciting and educational STEM Saturday, where young minds in grades 2-5 are invited to converge and explore the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by learning about American infrastructure and how to build it from 12 to 1 p.m.

The biggest highlight of this weekend's event will be a hands-on workshop where students will have the opportunity to design and build bridges using straws and various materials under the guidance of one of the library's dedicated librarians.

STEM education has become increasingly important in today's technology-driven world, and events like STEM Saturday play a crucial role in inspiring and nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. Through engaging activities like bridge building, students not only learn essential STEM concepts but also develop critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork skills.

The bridge-building workshop during STEM Saturday promises to be both educational and fun. Participants will work in teams to design and construct bridges using straws, tape, and other materials provided by the library. This hands-on approach allows students to apply scientific principles such as structural engineering, physics, and geometry in a practical and interactive manner.

With this week’s unfortunate and catastrophic bridge collapsing in Baltimore, the library is taking extra steps to ensure students are educated on the subject of infrastructure and understanding how it works and is maintained.

Under the guidance of Librarian Lois Young, a passionate and experienced librarian with a background in STEM education with degrees from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Queens College, students will learn the fundamentals of bridge design, and the science that goes behind it. This includes lessons like load distribution, stability, and weight-bearing capacity. Through trial and error, participants will gain very valuable insights into problem-solving strategies and the iterative design process that goes into building bridges.

“We are very excited,” said Librarian Young. “Attendance can be hit or miss,” she said about STEM Saturdays, “but the students who come always tell me how much fun they had.”

Apart from the technical aspects, the workshop encourages creativity and innovation. Participants will have the freedom to experiment with different bridge designs, incorporating unique features and aesthetics into their creations. This not only fosters individual expression but also encourages collaboration and peer learning within the teams.

STEM Saturday at Uniondale Library goes beyond just building bridges. STEM Saturday fosters a spirit of curiosity and exploration in students from Uniondale. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with professionals and experts, gaining valuable insights into various STEM fields and career paths they may not even realize they’re interested in yet., as well as hands-on demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and engaging discussions will further enrich the learning experience.

In addition to the bridge-building workshop, attendees can look forward to a range of other activities and resources at STEM Saturday. From robotics demonstrations to coding challenges, there will be something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

STEM Saturday also aims to promote diversity and inclusivity in the STEM fields, where only 9 percent of the workforce is Black professionals, and that is unacceptable, says the library. The event welcomes students of all backgrounds and interests, encouraging a diverse range of perspectives and ideas. By fostering an inclusive learning environment, STEM Saturday strives to inspire every participant to pursue their passion for STEM.

STEM Saturday at Uniondale Library is not just a one-day event; it's a stepping stone towards a future where STEM education is accessible, engaging, and empowering for all. Join us on March 30th for a day of discovery, creativity, and limitless possibilities!