ELLSWORTH — Ellsworth Public Library is excited to announce its participation in Book Drop, a free STEM Storytime series that brings together books, hands-on science activities, and real-world STEM careers for children ages 4 through 8 and their families.

Held in the library’s Makerspace, Book Drop combines engaging picture books with interactive activities that explore science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and accessible ways. Each session encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving while helping young learners connect stories to real-life STEM concepts.

The upcoming Book Drop programs include:

• 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6 – “Bean Bags & Blueprints”
  Children will hear “They’re Tearing Up Mulberry Street” by Yvonne Ng and explore engineering and design by planning and building a town together. Participants will learn what a civil engineer does and why planning is important in construction and design, using materials such as pattern blocks.
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22 – “Echoes and Obstacles”
  Featuring “Fiona the Fruit Bat” by Dan Riskin, this session introduces children to echolocation. Families will meet zoologist and bat expert Nancy Simmons and discover how animals—and people—use their senses to understand the world around them.
• 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3 – “Crater Creators”
  This space-themed Storytime includes a special video appearance from astronaut Frank Rubio, who reads “Rocket Says Look Up!” by Nathan Bryon from the International Space Station. Children will learn what astronauts do and explore what we see in the sky. Following the program, the public is invited to observe the moon through the library’s large telescope from 7–7:30 p.m.
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 – “Nature Detectives”
  After reading “Jayden’s Impossible Garden” by Mélina Mangal, young participants will use their senses to make observations and learn how gardeners study plants. Guest gardener Ena McPherson will share insights into gardening and discovery in nature.

STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math—is an approach to learning that emphasizes hands-on exploration, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem solving. These skills are increasingly important in today’s growing economy and future careers.

Book Drop is funded by the National Science Foundation and provided by Twin Cities PBS and the STAR Library Network (STAR Net). The program features videos with real children, animated characters Kitty and Leo, and book readings by STEM professionals such as astronauts, engineers, and gardeners.

All Book Drop programs at Ellsworth Public Library are free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to attend and learn together.

For more information, please contact Ellsworth Public Library or visit the library’s website or social media pages.

Submitted by Librarian Robin Kruse