Building a Shared STEM Program for Every Community in the Southwest Florida Library Network
How Southwest Florida Library Network Expanded STEM Access with STEM Education Works
Southwest Florida Library Network (SWFLN) built a shared Bits and Bytes to Borrow STEM collection and paired it with hands‑on training, so libraries across southwest Florida could offer high‑quality programs without having to build their own labs.
Ozobot Evo and Accessories
Horizon DIY Fuel Cell Science
Wonder Workshop Dash
MakerBot Sketch Sprint and Filament
STEM Quest Activity Cards - 3D Printing Edition
Sphero RVR+ and Accessories
littleBits
STEM Quest Activity Cards - littleBits Edition
About Southwest Florida Library Network
Southwest Florida Library Network is a multi‑type library cooperative that helps community members, schools, and libraries share training, resources, and services across the region. Instead of expecting every branch to buy and maintain its own STEM lab, SWFLN built a shared “Bits and Bytes to Borrow” collection that member sites can check out like books and bring directly into their own programs.
With STEM Education Works as a long‑term partner, the network has transformed STEM from a one‑off experiment into a core budget item and a growing service area. This story shows how a regional library system can make emerging technology feel approachable, affordable, and meaningful for communities that might not otherwise have access.
“Public libraries, especially in Florida, are seeing an influx of homeschool students down here, too. So it’s also an opportunity to meet the demands of homeschool families that are coming in. We have a larger senior population, and they also like to explore technology in a way that’s not intimidating or overwhelming.”
The Challenge: STEM for Every Branch, Not Just the Biggest Ones
SWFLN’s members wanted to offer stronger STEM programming, but many branches did not have the budget, storage, or specialist staff to build a full lab on their own. Libraries were also seeing new demand from homeschool families, community members curious about technology, and older adults who wanted a low‑pressure way to explore tools like 3D printers and robotics.
At the same time, staff were juggling reference, circulation, outreach, and events, leaving limited time to vet equipment or learn complex devices from scratch. SWFLN needed a way to make STEM feel realistic in everyday library life, not just at a few well‑resourced branches.
How STEM Education Works Stepped In
To tackle these challenges, SWFLN partnered with STEM Education Works to combine a curated suite of STEM tools with practical professional development and ongoing guidance. Together, they focused on building a lending collection that made sense for real library environments and on training that gave staff the confidence to use each kit with patrons right away.
SWFLN gathers wish‑list items from member libraries throughout the year, then works with STEM Education Works and other educators to weigh pros and cons before each purchase, focusing on tools that will see frequent use across the network.
The Bits and Bytes to Borrow collection includes a mix of high‑tech and low‑tech tools, from circuitry and coding kits to button makers and building blocks, some even paired with and resources that help the “I’m not a STEM person” staff feel ready to lead.
STEM Education Works supports SWFLN through standalone workshops, webinars, and featured sessions at Makerpalooza, giving librarians and educators space to ask questions, practice with the equipment, and think through realistic one‑hour program plans.
“Each year, we add a little bit more. We make sure that we add low‑tech and high‑tech items,” says Amy-Jane. “We’ve offered things not just for children; we offer things that can be used for all ages.”
How SWFLN Makes STEM Equipment Go Further
Instead of every library building a separate lab, SWFLN purchases classroom sets of STEM equipment and loans them through its online catalog so member sites can reserve tools just like books. Items are requested through MyTurn software, delivered by courier, and typically checked out for 21 days, with flexibility for longer classroom or semester‑length projects when needed.
This model lets a single collection power school visits, homeschool meetups, teen programs, and large community events across many counties. When staff have questions or new budget opportunities, they know they can call their STEM Education Works contact for practical advice on what to add next.
Libraries as Gateways to Real-World Careers
As SWFLN added equipment and training, STEM shifted from an occasional add‑on to one of the network’s most popular, budgeted‑for services. After hands‑on professional development, previously unused kits started circulating regularly as staff felt confident enough to integrate them into programs. Community members now encounter everything from renewable energy kits and 3D printing tools to button makers and building blocks during library visits, often for the first time.
These experiences not only draw people back into branches but also help them see libraries as gateways to real‑world technology and careers.
“Everyone needs to know how to use equipment and to be able to start with blocks and button makers and then move on to simple coding. It’s awesome that we can do this and continue to support STEM education. It’s so important and not just in an educational environment, but even like looking at career development and moving forward.”
Industry Solutions
Education Solutions
Explore some of the technologies used in this lab.
We want you to succeed with our technology and curriculum. That’s why we go above and beyond to become your STEM partner. We will help you every step of the way. Our one-on-one consultations and professional development resources make getting started a breeze.
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