FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
IMLS Press Contact
202-653-4630
Mamie Bittner, mbittner@imls.gov
Third Library Stakeholder Meeting Set for June 5 at Chicago Public Library
Discussion will center on STEM learning in libraries
Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) will hold the final meeting in a series of three stakeholder convenings about trends in library service on Thursday June 5, from 9:00 a.m.-- 4:30 p.m. CDT at the Chicago Public Library. The focus of the meeting is STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) learning in libraries.
IMLS invites broad participation via a live webcast, accessible here, and library professionals and the public are encouraged to participate through Twitter using the hashtag #imlsfocus. Seating at the event is limited.
IMLS recognizes the role of libraries to help adults and teens develop 21st-century skills, such as information, communications, and technology literacy. Libraries are community technology hubs where out-of-school STEM learning takes place in computer labs, digital learning labs, community science fairs, and STEM-focused exhibits and public programs.
The Chicago meeting will cover STEM learning for all types of users, with an emphasis on models or practices that serve at-risk youth. To help frame future investments in this area, we plan to discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities, including the following:
- What We Know and How to Translate: The Informal STEM Landscape and Opportunities for Libraries
- Models for Programs and Scalability Challenges
- Conversation with IMLS Director – Chicago’s City-wide STEM
- Diversity in STEM Programming
- Roles of Staff and the Preparation of Librarians and Archivists
Among the speakers are:
- Dennis Schatz, Pacific Science Center
- Brian Bannon, Chicago Public Library
- Elizabeth Swanson, City of Chicago
- Paul Wyn Jennings, National Science Foundation
- Angela Brade, Howard County Library System
- Felton Thomas, Cleveland Public Library
- Lynn Dierking, Oregon State University
- Paul Dusenbery, Space Science Institute
- Reed Stevens, Northwestern University/FUSE
- Darrell Porcello, Lawrence Hall of Science
- Jennifer Nelson, Minnesota Department of Education, State Library Services
Click here for the full agenda.
This is the third in a series of three strategic priority meetings hosted by IMLS, each focused on a different priority. The first, held in New York in late April, examined national digital initiatives. The second, held in San Francisco in May, focused on learning spaces in libraries. IMLS will release a revised National Leadership Grant application this summer that will reflect the priorities identified during these meetings.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.