Howard County Library

Howard County Public Library, in Columbia, Maryland, along with partners The Institute of Learning Innovation and MindGrub Technologies, LLC, will develop a Learning Lab for youth ages 11-18 at the Savage Branch library. Staff at the branch and system levels have identified the need for a dedicated space and activities to meet the increased usage of the library by teen customers, and to deliver effective, informal, learning involving digital media. The project will engage youth in the design, planning, activity selection, and ongoing evaluation of the lab. Mentorship and expertise will be delivered by both youth and adults who will interact with teach and guide lab participants in using new and emerging media and technology, while emphasizing youth-directed interests. This youth-centered approach hopes to result in enhanced technical knowledge, strengthened independent learning skills, and foundations for the pursuit of higher education opportunities and jobs.