SCPL Receives Grant for New Laptops for STEAM Program

The Santa Cruz Public Libraries (SCPL) was awarded a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to purchase 21 new laptops for the “Afterschool STEAM” program at the La Selva Beach Branch Library. In this program, students ages 8-18 learn basic engineering principals while playing Minecraft. Afterschool STEAM takes place at the La Selva Beach Branch Library on Thursdays from 4:15pm-5:30pm.

This program was supported by the IMLS under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), administered in California by the State Librarian. The LSTA is the only federal program exclusively for libraries. State libraries use the funds to support statewide initiatives and also distribute the funds through subgrants or cooperative agreements to public, school, academic, research, and special libraries. There is a requirement for a state match, which helps stimulate approximately three to four dollars for every federal dollar invested. SCPL gives students of all ages the opportunity to learn and excel through supportive programming, and access to resources. SCPL provides on-line and in-person educational resources and K-12 homework help. Students can access research databases, take practice tests, check out a laptop or tablet, or join one of the diverse programs available each week.