TSLAC Pairs with Lego and ALSC to Create Junior Maker Spaces

Tuesday, October 14, 2014 • Austin, Texas • News Release

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission is partnering with the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) and LEGO Systems, Inc. to bring Junior Maker Spaces to local libraries. This initiative aims to provide children ages 4 to 6 with stimulating environments within their communities to promote motor skills and foster creative curiosity.

TSLAC will distribute a total of 15 Junior Maker toolkits to the nine public libraries in Travis County. Each kit includes over 10,000 LEGO® bricks, an inspirational poster, and an activity guide. Librarians will have access to an ongoing series of free downloadable lesson plans that deliver fun, age-appropriate building activities with easy to follow educational instructions and colorful photos to help to ensure a smooth transition to independent building at LEGO.com/Juniors.

“Libraries have always served as a springboard to creativity and curiosity for countless children across the state of Texas,” said Mark Smith TSLAC Director and Librarian, “Through our partnership with LEGO and ALSC we are literally providing young people with the building blocks they need to become the next generation of architects, designers and creative problem solvers that will play an integral role in the future our information based economy.” 

TSLAC encourages librarians and parents to visit the Lego Foundation’s Cultures of Creativity Report, a collection of 18 essays contributed by leading global academics describing the role of play and creativity in cultures around the world.  The report explores the importance of developing creative skills at a time where creativity is one of the most sought-after traits for innovative societies. More information on this report can be found at www.LEGOFoundation.com.