Break out of the winter doldrums with Dormont Library’s afterschool science, technology, engineering, and math programs!


Each program is recommended for students of a different age group, so please read the descriptions carefully.

Registration will be required for all programs; call 412-531-8754 or email dormont@einetwork.net to register. Masks and social distancing requirements for in-person programming will remain until further notice.

Children under age 9 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, caregiver, or family member who is at least 15 years old.

The kits used in these programs were funded by a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Office of Commonwealth Libraries.

January 11 & 18, 3:15-4:15 PM: 3Dux Design Kit
1st Grade and Up (limit 8 participants per session)

In this program, participants will design and build structures using 3Dux reusable building connectors and cardboard. Participants will have access to traditional and computer tools to help them build.

January 13 & 27, 3:15-4:15 PM: MakeDoInvent Toolbox
4th-8th Grade (limit 7 participants per session)

An engineering program for older kids and young adults, using safe cardboard-cutting tools and fasteners to build more complex structures or models. Participants will have access to traditional and computer tools to help them design and build their project.

January 25 & Feb. 1, 3:15-4:15 PM: Strawbees Engineering
1st Grade and Up (limit 12 participants per session)

Strawbees is a simple construction kit using only flexible plastic. Participants can use the Strawbees kit to create model buildings, bridges, domes, or 3D shapes and experiment with structural design. Participants will have access to traditional and computer tools.

February 8, 3:15-4:15 PM: Edison Microbric Robots
2nd-4th Grade (limit 10 participants)

Step into the world of coding and robotics with these LEGO-compatible robot kits! Run sample programs already downloaded to the robots, or create your own programs with a visual drag-and-drop editor.

February 10 & 24, 3:15-4:15 PM: Squishy Circuits
4th-8th Grade (limit 8 participants per session)

Try your hand at electrical engineering with special electrically-conductive and insulating clay. Start by “wiring” up an LED light, then experiment with motors, buzzers, and switches.

February 15 & 23, 3:15-4:15 PM: Paper Circuits (I)
March 1 & 8, 3:15-4:15 PM: Paper Circuits (II)
3rd Grade and Up (limit 10 participants per session)

Use conductive tape, LEDs, and coin cell batteries to make a unique paper creation. We will also demonstrate how to use computer-aided design tools to make custom-cut cardstock shapes. (Only library staff will operate the cutting machine.)

March 10 & 24, 3:15-4:15 PM: Build-a-Bristlebot Workshop
5th Grade and Up (limit 12 participants per session)

What do you get when you combine a toothbrush head, pipe cleaner arms, googly eyes, and a mini electric motor? You get a bristlebot! Experiment with different component placements and make your bristlebot race, wander, or dance.

March 15 & 22. 3:15-4:15 PM: Light-Up Origami
3rd Grade and Up (limit 12 participants per session)

Take your paper folding to the next level using circuit tape, lights, and motors. Make a light-up flower, a horse that runs, or an origami T-rex with laser eyes.

March 29 & April 4, 3:15-4:15 PM: Wikki Stix Art
3rd-6th Grade (limit 12 participants per session)

Apply engineering skills to art and use these flexible wax sticks to create the frame for a lovely mosaic.