Partnership Brings STEM, Exploration to County Youth

San Mateo County Libraries is excited to launch new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programming for San Mateo County youth through a partnership with Genentech, opens a new window this Spring. This unique partnership has enabled us to increase our educational STEM offerings through Make-It March, opens a new window activities for all and a virtual afterschool program for eligible 3-5th grade students to support their literacy and STEM skills.

Make-It March

We are kicking off our annual Make-It March programming with a special sewable robotic circuit Take and Make kit, opens a new window for elementary-aged youth to enjoy. These kits, provided through a sponsorship by Genentech to our Foundation, opens a new window, will be available at all San Mateo County Libraries via Curbside Services, opens a new window beginning Tuesday, March 9 and while supplies last. Explore additional Make-It March activities, opens a new window to create, tinker, and make with us!

Gene Academy

With the support of Genentech this January, we launched the first virtual Gene Academy, opens a new window program to students in all our communities. Gene Academy is an afterschool program for 3rd-5th grade students geared to improve reading, writing, STEM-excitement and critical thinking skills through letter-writing and hands-on projects. The online program was created through a partnership with Genentech on Cricket Media’s, opens a new window TryEngineering Together platform.

Library staff and volunteers lead the program weekdays on a biweekly basis, alternating between literacy and reading activities and hands-on STEM projects. Genentech recruits employees to volunteer and after going through a screening and background check process, eMentors commit to helping students reach their personal and academic potential. STEM eMentors are paired with one student for the duration of program which allows students to build a 1:1 relationship through letters. Additionally, students learn about STEM topics through articles and related hands-on activities.

We strive to provide transformative educational experiences for our community every day. We are grateful to Genentech and partnerships that help us increase our impact and ignite growth for all through unique opportunities.