Technology learning has taken on new levels at the Ponoka Jubilee Library with its Makerspace program.
With help from a Telus grant, the library was able to purchase new computer monitors, Minecraft EDU software, an educational version of the popular game, for all its computers and several different technology gadgets that promote learning for kids of ages of teens and tweens.
“You put them together to make something new,” said Jaclyn Berry, library manager, who also oversees the Makerspace program that has seen rising popularity throughout libraries.
This month the library will host a drop-in program on Thursday, Jan. 28 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. and Berry says initially the library had an age limit of 12 years and older but she wants to see more use in the program and opened it up to kids 10 years and up.
“The whole idea if we have these things is to get them used,” said Berry.
There has also been some interest from the Ponoka Youth Centre to use the kits and Berry has considered including the items in the Parkland Regional Library pool. If other users request them, they could be borrowed within the library network.
Berry said the kits they have are ideal for new learners or for those who are technology-minded and she invites kids to check out what is on offer.
There are several interesting items the library was able to purchase under the program: Intuous tablets for creative digital artwork, three sets of Little Bits kits, two sets of Makey Makey kits and five Kano kits. To find out how these kits work and how they can be applied to technology learning, Jan. 28 is the day to check out the program at the library.