Libraries, the civic institutions where books, located through card catalogs not computers, were available for patrons, have changed along with society and have become more than a place to borrow a book. By re-imagining themselves and moving along with the times, they offer digital products such as movies and books read on electronic devices.

The Field Library – the public library of Peekskill and Cortlandt – sees the need for expanding its offering in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) and is  beginning its fundraising campaign for a new STEM lab.

“The vision of The Field Library STEM Lab is to serve all ages and expand participation to the public that is already interested in or has been reluctant to engage with math, science and technology,” said Jennifer Brown, the library’s Executive Director. “By offering programs that are engaging and provide a positive experience with STEM activities, people of all ages are more likely to participate and pursue related interests and further opportunities in STEM fields.”

The library, which is located in the Neighborhood Center at 4 Nelson Avenue, has designated one of its newly leased classrooms on the lower floor of its building as its future STEM lab. A State grant enabled the library to begin the planning of the lab and the installation of the primary audiovisual equipment, a screen, and to purchase laptops.

According to Brown, there have been some specific program suggestions such as programming for all age groups, workforce development skills, consumer health research online, genealogy research, and online privacy and security research. Ms. Brown noted, “The library’s bilingual staff will be able to help Spanish-speakers to obtain computer literacy skills, job searching, workforce development and citizenship preparation.”

Thanks to the Friends of The Field Library, $3900 has already been raised toward the purchase of furniture, and toward future programming.  The Friends will be holding additional fundraising activities in the coming months to raise the money needed to complete the lab.

“The Board of Trustees is very happy to see the community support for this important new initiative,” said Alan Most, president of library’s Board of Trustees. “I look forward to more residents, businesses and organizations in Peekskill and Cortlandt get behind this important initiative.”

“We’re looking for corporate sponsors to purchase a 3D printer and furniture that would be versatile for the computer classes and robotics activities we envision in the lab,” said Brown. With the support of the community, we hope to have the STEM lab operational by the fall.”

For more information on how to financially support the library’s STEM initiatives contact Alan Most at [email protected].  For more information about future STEM projects contact Jennifer Brown at [email protected] .