Princeton NJ Libraries Announcements

Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab @Princeton Public Library Opens February 1

Princeton Public Library is holding a grand opening celebration of the Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab Sunday, Feb. 1, with events throughout the day. The new STEAM-learning space on the third floor features integrated technology and equipment designed to support learners in grades K-12.

The space features laptop and desktop computers, iPads, sewing machines, a 3-D printer bar, woodworking tools, virtual reality and gaming equipment, crafting supplies and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) learning kits that can accommodate class sizes of up to 16 students at a time.

“I’m excited that the library has created a space for kids and teens in our community to explore, learn and create,” said Head of Youth Services Marissa Warren. “We worked hard to create scaffold learning so there is an entry point for all technology whether it's 3D printing, sewing, game design, or art. Access to these types of technology outside of a school environment can be cost prohibitive and having a space in the library that offers it for free is going to open up so many possibilities.”

The day’s events begin with a ribbon cutting at 12:15 p.m. Tours of the space will be given from 12:30-2;30 p.m. Tours will take 15 minutes and can accommodate up to 16 people at a time. Interactive STEAM demonstrations and crafts will be held on the third floor from 12:30-2;30 p.m. Take & Make kits for a Spark Lab Matching Game craft for kids to make at home will be available while supplies last.

At 2:30 p.m., “IMAP: To the Edge of the Sun – A Heliophysics Discovery Day” will take place in the Community Room. The event will feature activities, demonstrations displays and a chance to meet the scientists and engineers who are part of the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe, a NASA mission to study a wide range of particles and fields in the heliosphere, a bubble that surrounds our solar system. This event is presented in partnership with Space Physics at Princeton and the Center on Science and Technology at Princeton University.

“The creation of the Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab is another step toward fulfilling our mission to provide equitable learning opportunities in our community,” said Executive Director Jennifer Podolsky. “Providing this space, where every child will have the chance to create, discover and increase their knowledge of science and technology, is a great example of how vital the library is to Princeton.”

The Myra and Van Williams Spark Lab was made possible by a lead donation from longtime Princeton residents Myra and Van Williams, for whom the space is named, and several other donors. The Municipality of Princeton is providing funds for tech equipment and supplies.

“We are deeply grateful to Myra and Van, the Municipality of Princeton and all of the generous donors who helped make this vision a reality,” said Podolsky.