Libraries to have `cool' reason for kids to visit

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If you're a parent, you might have another reason to take your kids to the local library – “Cool Creations.” More than 30 local libraries throughout Washington will receive educational invention kits for children to use for a limited time, thanks to the Washington State Library. The State Library will send the libraries 32-piece Cool Creations challenge kits by Lego and Makey Makey invention kits to libraries in late April. State Librarian Rand Simmons said the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) and STREAM (science, technology, reading and writing, engineering, art, math) educational kits will benefit libraries that don’t have the resources to buy and provide their own for youth patrons. Said Simmons:

“These construction kits are going to many libraries where funding is scarce. The smallest libraries don’t have rooms to store Legos, let alone the money to buy the kits. Providing the kits to these libraries will give many kids opportunities to experiment with them and engage their creative side.”

The State Library will send one or both kits to these libraries or library districts throughout Washington: Anacortes, Asotin County, Bellingham, Carnation, Cathlamet, Clallam Bay, Davenport, Forks, Foster, Grandview, Jefferson County, Kenmore, King County, Mount Vernon, Newcastle, Newport Way, Palouse, Port Angeles, Puyallup, Renton, Renton Highlands, Richland, Ritzville, Salkum, Sequim, Snoqulamie, Spokane County, Sprague, Stevens County, St. John, Tacoma, Tekoa, Whitman County and Walla Walla.