The buzz about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) is not going away…for good reason. Focus on logical thought processes and problem solving skills helps all students, even those not pursuing STEM careers. Early learners benefit from strengthened independent learning skills, exposure to new technologies and introduction to STEM concepts and skills, including authentic scientific practices. Libraries help people from all ages and backgrounds gain access to learning resources. The New Ulm Public Library “Library of Things” has a variety of fun STEM activities to spark curiosity and support learning. Check out this amazing list and then check out an activity from the library.

Magnetic US Puzzle Map/Ages 4+ Develop problem solving, hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. An interactive fun way to learn to recognize state shapes and geography.

Pendulonium/Ages 5+ an engineering game to develop critical thinking and early engineering skills. “Solve all the challenges in the included booklet…then create your own crashing contraptions. It’s an exciting way to explore force, motion, velocity and more!”

Crashapult/Ages 5+ an engineering game to develop critical thinking and early engineering skills. Like Pendulonium, another fun way to explore force, motion, velocity and more.

Solar System Puzzle Globe/ Ages 3+ Develops early science and fine motor skills as kids solve this 3-D, rotating puzzle. “Self-correcting puzzle pieces’ unique shapes help kids find the right answer. Go on imaginative adventures with the astronaut, spaceship, and glow-in-the-dark constellations.”

Primary Science Lab Set/Ages 3+ Develops observation and cause and effect “Big science for little hands! Discover, predict, experiment and see science in action.” Includes activity cards with easy-to-follow experiments.

Stem Experiment Kit Magnetic Science/Ages 8+ Explore the amazing and mysterious power of magnets with this kit of 33 experiments and games. Learn about magnetic poles, magnetic fields and magnetic properties under different conditions.

Magnetic Building Cubes/Ages 3+ “Crazy 3D brain Development Magic Construction Blocks”

Magnetic Human Body Play Set/ Ages 3+

Straws/Ages 3+ Build unlimited designs yourself

Of course, all learning—not only STEM–is important and learning happens in a variety of ways. Playing board games stimulates the brain areas responsible for memory and complex processing. Players develop patience and learn how to make decisions. Wordle, Tapple, Minnesota-opoly, Wrong Party and Fiction are just a few of the board games available for checkout at the Library. There is something for everyone!

The library is located at 17 N. Broadway and is open to the public Monday to Thursday 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The library will be closed Tuesday July 4, 2023