Virginia Beach Public Library Wins Top Innovator Award

Virginia Beach Public Library (VBPL) designed an innovative way to bring STEM programming to preschoolers after determining that many were unable to attend regularly scheduled science programs in the libraries.  

Across 60 classrooms in Virginia Beach this past spring, 900 preschoolers explored nature and interacted through imaginative play, while learning science, technology, engineering and math concepts, thanks to the unique program. 

The initiative, called Environmental STEM: Play and Learn, has been named one of six 2024 Top Innovators by the Urban Library Council. The Top Innovator Award honors public libraries in the United States and Canada for innovative strategies and insightful programs.  

The VBPL STEM program for ages 3-5 was selected as a winner from 230 projects submitted because of its originality, outcomes and the potential for other libraries to replicate it.  

Based on current trends and best practices in preschool education and with support from a Coastal Virginia 2023-2024 Grant, the library developed three programs, with each highlighting a community helper within a related field.  

The themes were based on the local ecosystem and included garden and plants, Chesapeake Bay habitat and pollinators. One of the goals was to make connections to how these concepts impact preschoolers’ everyday lives and the people in and world around them. 

In addition to limited access to the library, many community preschoolers, especially those from underserved communities, lacked access to high-quality books and environmental text, so the programs included classroom kits and take-home components, as well. 

It also provided learning opportunities for library staff, childcare providers, community partners, parents along with the preschoolers.     

For more information on programs and outreach offered through the Virginia Beach Public Library, please visit libraries.virginiabeach.gov.