From fairy tale-themed science experiments to slime labs and zoo story times, Chicago Public Library’s ScienceConnections series makes hands-on learning fun, accessible and imaginative for kids across the city.
This robust program — which rotates through many of CPL’s 81 branches — comes to life thanks to CPL’s School-Age Team in Children’s Services and Family Engagement. Whether it’s chemistry scavenger hunts or Discovery Packs and Grab and Go kits, it’s all designed to turn STEAM into an adventure, not just a subject, says Robin Willard, Senior Project Manager.
“There’s a lot of passion and energy behind providing dynamic and appealing STEAM opportunities for kids,” she says. “What’s exciting is that staff aren’t just teaching. They’re experimenting and learning alongside kids.”
Creative programs that spark imagination
ScienceConnections is all about sparking curiosity and building real-world skills through hands-on themes, such as:
- Fidget spinners
- STEAM family gardening
- A doodling robot
- Nature
- Hydroponic bulbs
- Ocean crafts
- Lava lamps
- Terrariums
- Sun-changing UV bracelets
- Volcanoes
- Glow-in-the-dark story time
- Slime
- Spiders
- Space
What makes ScienceConnections so compelling is the CPL crew’s creativity, Willard says. Whether kids are walking through nature in garden clubs or building mazes as a team, every experience is designed to be hands-on, collaborative and fun.
“One standout example was when a staff member presented STEAM activities connected through fairy tales,” she says. “Kids helped Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk ride a zipline — and explored buoyancy with The Three Billy Goats Gruff.”
CPL also considers what’s going on at nearby attractions, such as the Lincoln Park Zoo, when planning their programs.
“During World Gorilla Day, kids not only heard gorilla stories and songs, they also met a zoo educator who explained how enrichment activities support animal well-being.”
Something for kids of all ages
While many ScienceConnections programs are aimed at school-age youth (ages 8 and up), the library also offers options for younger kids, including preschool-friendly story times.
For instance, an annual STEAM-Powered Saturday event is open to all ages. The next one takes place on Oct. 4, 2025.
“All kinds of kids would love these programs,” Willard says. “They don’t have to have a special interest in science to enjoy them.”
How ScienceConnections came to life
Hands-on science and nature learning has long been a focus for CPL, Willard says, with staff linking engaging activities directly to the library’s deep collections. Kids can build a paper rocket one moment, and read about real-life engineers the next.
It’s all thanks to donations through the Chicago Public Library Foundation, she adds.
“CPL offers a wide variety of hands-on ScienceConnections opportunities to ignite and foster critical thinking,” Willard says, “both at the library, in programs, or at home, through our Discovery Packs and Grab and Go Kits.”
Kids get in on the action
Families also build relationships with staff who are eager to learn what kids love — and even co-create a program around their interests.
“One branch recently worked closely with a fifth-grader who loved chemistry to design a Science Club,” Willard says. “It included a scavenger hunt to find the best elements from the Periodic Table and the construction of atoms.”
Plan your ScienceConnections visit
Your best first step is to get event info and register for upcoming sessions on CPL’s website. Or visit your local branch to see what’s new.
Most programs provide all the necessary materials (thanks again to the CPL Foundation), but a little planning can help families maximize their experience.
“Dress for a marvelous mess,” Willard says. “Sometimes there are special recommendations to have sun protection, or there might be a request to bring binoculars if you have them. Always check the program descriptions on the website for specifics.”
She also encourages families to register in advance, as space can be limited. Early registration guarantees a spot and ensures staff have enough materials ready for everyone.
This content is sponsored by Chicago Public Library. Learn more about ScienceConnections at chipublib.org.
