Public Library Hosts Winter STEM Program for Young Children

The Public Library for Union County welcomed local families on Friday, Jan. 2 for a Winter STEM event that ran from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Designed for children ages 6-9, the afternoon featured winter-themed activities such as melting snowmen and frosty experiments aimed at engaging young learners in basic science and problem solving as the holiday break ended.

The event was listed on the library’s official events calendar, which schedules programs for all ages across Union County branches. Parents and caregivers were asked to register to attend by calling 570-523-1172, visiting a library branch in person, or signing up online. The registration options reflect the library’s effort to make participation accessible through multiple channels.

Hands-on STEM activities at community libraries serve several local needs. For young children, interactive experiments foster curiosity, build foundational science skills, and create a structured opportunity for social interaction outside the classroom. For working families, programming during school breaks can provide enrichment and supervised engagement at a time when formal childcare options may be limited. In Union County, where access to extracurricular STEM programming can vary by neighborhood and household resources, library events help reduce barriers to participation.

Beyond immediate learning benefits, community-based programs such as Winter STEM touch on broader public health and equity issues. Regular opportunities for cognitive stimulation and peer interaction support child development and mental well-being. Public libraries are often a frontline resource for families facing economic constraints, offering low-barrier access to educational experiences that would otherwise incur cost. Continued investment in library programming and outreach can help address disparities in access to early educational enrichment across the county.

As the calendar of events continues through January and beyond, the Public Library for Union County remains a central provider of community programs. Families interested in future offerings can register for upcoming programs by calling 570-523-1172, visiting a library branch, or signing up through the library’s online events system. These local programs are part of the library’s broader efforts to support learning, connection, and equitable access to enrichment across Union County.