The Library Program

pH and Acid/Base Identification - 10/22/26

Report coming soon!

Strawberry DNA Extraction - 09/08/26

This meeting started off with our typical mini-lesson exploring DNA, DNA structure, and chromosomes!  We learned DNA's role in the body and about its shape and structure: similar to a twisting ladder! We talked about the nucleotides that make up the 'steps' of the DNA ladder and how groups of nucleotides make up genes; genes can determine hair type, nose shape, eye color, and so much more! Then, we learned about chromosomes and how humans have two copies of each chromosome while strawberries have eight copies! We wrapped up the lesson by talking about the 23rd chromosome and its role in determining your biological sex.   

After learning, we passed out materials to start our activity. We used strawberries, ziplock bags, dish soap, salt, water, rubbing alcohol, coffee filter, plastic cups, and popsicle sticks. We demonstrated while the children worked in pairs and followed along; smushing the strawberries was a lot of fun! Our new team of volunteers in addition to our volunteer board assisted the children to mix together materials and filter their mixture. We extracted lots of gloopy DNA!

Borax Crystals - 08/17/26

This meeting started off with our typical mini-lesson exploring crystallization and states of matter. We learned about the process of crystallization and how molecules stack up in a neat and organized order. Then, we learned about the three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas. We even did a dance to represent molecules at each state! Afterwards, we talked about how cooling a supersaturated solution after boiling can create crystals. The molecules move closer together leaving less space for the solute. This causes the solute molecules to stack up and form crystals!

After learning, we passed out materials to start our activity. We used pipe cleaners, jars, masking tape, borax, and string/ribbon. We passed out instructions on how to complete the activity. Hot water needed to be added at home to ensure safety for everyone. Volunteers assisted the children to tie their pipe cleaner designs to the jar lid and make sure their jars were ready to complete at home!

Balloon Powered Cars - 07/20/26

This meeting started off with our typical mini-lesson exploring different kinds of energy. We learned about potential energy which is stored energy is waiting to be released. Then, we learned about  kinetic energy, the energy of motion in which energy is released. We discussed examples of both kinds of energy and learned the differences. Additionally. We learned about Issac Newton, and his three laws of motion. 1. Inertia: Objects are lazy! They don't move unless a force in put on them. 2. Acceleration: Larger things need more force to move then smaller things. 3. Action/Reaction: Forces are never lonely! They always come in pairs when two objects interact. There is an equal push and pull for each object. Lastly, we learned that energy is never created nor destroyed! It can change in presentation, but the amount in the universe is always the same. 

After learning, we passed out materials to start our activity. We used toilet paper rolls, straws, bottle caps, lollipop sticks, hot glue, and a hole puncher. We passed out magnetic wands to show students how the magnetic slime is attracted to the magnet. Volunteers and adults handled hot glue to ensure safety. The children got to keep to race their cars and 'blow' us away with their car designs!