Pairing STEAM with Stories

Laying the groundwork for building children's curiosity, openness to learning, ability to persist in the face of failure, and interest in connecting learning from one subject to the other are important objectives for today’s libraries. Partnering with cultural institutions, such as the Chicago Public Library (CPL) does with Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry (MSI), libraries can forge powerful connections between literacy and science. This resource shares the fruits of that partnership, offering ready-to-go, library-tested activities that meld cutting-edge STEAM education principles with some of the best books available for youth today. It’s a model that can be used in a variety of library or museum settings and can also be adapted for outreach.

Inside, readers will find

• 46 book-based, customizable STEAM activities, each complete with program length, materials list, and step-by-step instructions;
• real-life tips, advice, and thoughts from practicing CPL librarians sprinkled throughout the book;
• pointers on incorporating STEAM into existing programs;
• pedagogical strategies behind effective STEAM experiences, ensuring successful implementation of these skills; and
• helpful supporting materials such as a program planning rubric and a vendor list.

The activities in this book will make STEAM learning fun while planting the seeds for lifelong learning.