Although libraries used to be associated with books only, many are now making an effort to appeal to a wider range of interests.

This includes the North Dakota State Library, which has starting offering STEM kits thanks to grants from the Air Force STEM Program, the Grand Forks Air Force Base, and NASA@ My Library.

What are STEM kits and how can you borrow one? Here’s everything you need to know to get your hands on a STEM kit and start exploring!

What Kinds of STEM Kits Are Available?

North Dakota State Library’s STEM kit program offers more than fifty unique kits designed for various age ranges and learning styles. There are plenty of hands-on kits for young children focused on building their engineering and programming skills. You could also try some of the more advanced kits for teens and adults on topics like climate literacy and robots. 

Choosing the Right STEM Kit

When checking out a STEM kit, we recommend involving your child in the selection process. Let them browse the catalog with you and figure out which kits appeal to their interests, scratch a creative itch they’ve been feeling, and help engage them in meaningful learning experiences. 

Educational kits like these are a great way to give children a sense of agency in their education and encourage them to seek out knowledge for the rest of their lives. 

How to Borrow a STEM Kit from North Dakota State Library

If you’re interested in borrowing a STEM kit, you’ll be pleased to know that it is as simple as checking out a library book. Just make sure that the kit you want is currently available through the online catalog, and decide how you want to receive it.

You can either check out STEM kits in person or have them shipped straight to your door. You’ll have a full eights weeks to enjoy the activities in your kit before returning it. 

As with almost all the other services North Dakota libraries offer, the STEM kits can be checked out for free. However, if you choose to have your kit shipped to you, you’ll have to pay shipping fees to send it back, so if money’s tight, picking it up in person may be the better option.

If you’d like to peruse the extensive list of STEM kits available to borrow, visit the North Dakota State Library’s website today!