Beginning in 2017, Toronto Public Library launched a system‑wide initiative to expand digital access and introduce hands‑on STEM learning opportunities across the city. To support this effort, TPL partnered with Logics Academy to identify, curate, and implement robotics and circuitry tools that would empower patrons to explore coding, robotics, and digital literacy. Logics Academy played a central role by advising on appropriate technologies, developing the Play and Learn STEM Kits (PLSKs), and delivering training that equipped library staff to confidently run STEM programs. By integrating these tools and professional learning supports across its branches, TPL strengthened its ability to offer engaging, future‑ready digital learning experiences for communities throughout Toronto.

“Dash and Dot robots continue to be a popular learning tool amongst staff delivering STEM programs at TPL, and children attending those programs. The bots make learning fun through their various functionalities and can be used to support introductory learning and more advanced interdisciplinary learning, in both collaborative and self-directed environments.”

Leah Fiore Manager, Children’s Programs, Service Development & Innovation, Toronto Public Library

Challenge

With an aim to broaden Toronto’s digital access and inclusion and enhance the library’s role as a dynamic, forward-thinking hub of knowledge and community engagement, the Toronto Public Library sought to design an initiative that responded to emerging needs and community interest in robotics, coding, and digital literacy learning.

Solution

Beginning in 2017, TPL engaged various organizations, including Logics Academy, to identify learning tools that could support the development of curated robotics and circuitry kits, called Play and Learn STEM Kits (PLSKs). These kits would be introduced in programs to support digital literacy skills development in school-age children. With Dash and Dot robots and accessories among the selected tools, TPL worked with Logics Academy to procure equipment to support the initiative and to deliver training for library staff, which was essential for the successful rollout of the PLSKs.

Results

By August 2023, PLSKs were fully implemented in 97 branches in the system. As a result, an estimated 60,000 children have access to unique STEM learning opportunities each year, and library staff across the system have access to unique professional development opportunities on an ongoing basis.

For more information, contact info@logicsacademy.com

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