The STAR Library Network has a Summer of Space/A Universe of Stories resource webpage for public libraries across the country. This resource was created in partnership with Chief Officers of State Library Agencies (COSLA), the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), and NASA
From exciting events like CSLPs “A Universe of Stories,” to electrifying activities, and unparalleled resources, STAR Net’s Summer of Space resources will pave the way for your patrons to experience a space-themed, hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) program that is “out of this world”.
From NASA’s Night Sky Network of amateur astronomy clubs, to NASA’s Space Station Explorers program, STAR Net and its partners have curated some of the best programming resources, ideas, and collaborators to support and encourage libraries in their celebration of all that NASA and space science has to offer the next generation of space explorers. There are activity guides, makerspace ideas, and virtual reality excursions that bring space exploration down to Earth.
Not only are there activities such as A Strange New Planet, Crater Creations, and Trip to Mars but STAR Net’s Summer of Space webpage also highlights NASA events around the U.S. to celebrate the 50th anniversary for the Apollo 11 Moon walk on July 20, 1969. The University of Washington is organizing an engineering challenge for middle and high school students called ANGLeS (Apollo Next Giant Leap Student Challenge). Student participants will build a replica of the lunar lander and use a remote-controlled drone to land it on an 8-by-12-foot map of the Moon’s surface. They will also be able to take some awesome moon selfies. The U.S. mint has already released commemorative coins celebrating the anniversary. And your library can be part of this momentous event by participating in STAR Net’s Summer of Space.
Library staff may ask how they can offer a strong space exploration program for their community. STAR Net focuses on helping library professionals facilitate STEM learning for their patrons by providing “science-technology activities and resources” (STAR) and training to use those resources such as online webinar opportunities. Whether you are new to STEM or are building on past experiences, STAR Net offers resources and collaborations to take lifelong STEM learning to new levels in your library.
By registering, libraries can join an online community to share ideas, support each other, and build community partnerships in their own backyards. They are empowered, guided, and encouraged by the STAR Net family to be community anchor organizations that have the potential to transform STEM education nationwide. For more information, please check out the Summer of Space webpage: www.starnetlibraries.org/summer-of-space/.
This free, federally-funded NASA program provides access to webinars, space exploration activities, as well as the chance to win various giveaways including telescopes, NASA tactile books, and science books from Scholastic. STAR Net is also working with CSLP on producing a series of Summer Learning Champion videos that libraries can use to promote their summer programs. These should be ready by the end of April.