EDUCATION
LIBRARIES
OFFER KEY TO LEARNING
FOR KIDS & ADULTS
BY DONNA BANNWOLF , CORPORATE & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER , FREDERICK COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Libraries and education have long been close partners in the lifelong evolution of learning , and nowhere is that more evident than in our very own Frederick County Public Libraries . FCPL ’ s eight branches and two bookmobiles serve the community through programming , meeting rooms , technology resources and of course , books , both print and electronic . Each branch presents hundreds of programs for babies , students and adults , eager to continue their learning adventure .
FCPL is a starting point and an important rite of passage for children who , when they receive their first library card — the key to the kingdom of learning , if you will — are free to explore books , e-Content and fun , educational programs in the safety of the library environment .
Studies show that a significant amount of brain growth and language development occurs during baby ’ s first two years , so FCPL offers interactive learning experiences beginning with newborns . It ’ s never too early to exercise the brain , learn social skills and get prepared for that very important first day of school .
“ Our storytimes focus on early literacy skills , but we also trained with Frederick County Public Schools ’ early childhood educators to target additional school readiness skills , such as matching patterns which introduce math skills , learning to take turns and helping children develop their social and emotional foundations , so critical to success in school ,” explains FCPL Youth Services Coordinator Janet Vogel .
“ The most heartwarming experience I have had was with a young family who could not afford to send their son to preschool . After attending evening storytimes for a year , the mother pulled me aside to explain how storytimes had helped prepare her son for kindergarten , through interaction with his peers and learning to follow directions from an adult other than his parents , for which she was very grateful ,” Vogel said .
Elementary school and teenage students have their own special opportunity for experiential learning in any of FCPL ’ s four STEM ( Science , Technology , Engineering and Math ) Labs at C . Burr Artz , Urbana , Thurmont and Brunswick ( fcpl . org / STEMlab ). All branches offer STEM programs , which are popular because blended hands-on learning reinforces skills learned in the classroom through creative problem solving , an important skill for later on , in the workplace .
STEM programs focus on logical reasoning , critical thinking and investigative techniques . FCPL partners with community professionals , such as scientists from the Fort Detrick Alliance , to lead interactive learning programs . Children can create objects with 3D printers , make their own working robots and work on iPads with pre-loaded educational and safe apps .
“ Frederick has the second highest number of biotech companies in Maryland , and they are always looking for employees . Our STEM opportunities support our students who are preparing for tomorrow ’ s workforce ,” said FCPL Director Darrell Batson .
“ Libraries aren ’ t just about books and reading anymore . We are about learning , exploring and creating , too . We offer a variety of programs and resources for every child and adult ’ s interest from art to engineering . FCPL has the support of the entire community and will continue to place an emphasis on partnerships , early literacy and programs that give Frederick ’ s residents the ideal place to learn , gather , share ideas and advance their technology skills ,” Batson said .
All you have to do is walk through the door or visit online at fcpl . org .
28 FREDERICK COUNTY GUIDE | WINTER 2016