LEGO fans invited to Barnstaple Library for robotics and coding workshop

Hands-on LEGO® robotics and coding workshops are being held in libraries across Devon and Torbay, including Barnstaple this Wednesday (August 27).

Summer Spike LEGO runs on Wednesday from 2pm to 4pm and is a fun workshop using Spike LEGO, a steam-based tool from LEGO that includes bricks, sensors, motors and wires to make robots and other projects.

The LEGO workshops at libraries across the county are run by Libraries Unlimited, with support from Devon County Council, funded through the Library Improvement Fund from Arts Council England.

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Inspiring imaginations and challenging minds, it allows children a route i to STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) through play, socialisation and teamwork.

Over the past year, hundreds of people have taken part in the hands-on workshops. One parent said: “The children have thoroughly enjoyed the LEGO experience. It was great to see them coding and cultivating a love of STEM. Thank you so much. Highly recommend!”

As a result of this success, Libraries Unlimited has secured additional support, including LEGO League kits from the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and further LEGO sets through the Reading Agency’s Reading Sparks programme.

Torrington county councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said: “This initiative is brilliant. LEGO is a classic toy which has captured enjoyment through generations. These LEGO robotics projects will teach hands-on coding skills that I’m sure will spark an interest to learn more.

“Who knows what it could lead to, I bet even senior specialists in tech companies started small on projects like these when they were children, firing their imagination and creativity and helping spur them into the career paths they chose.

“It's really worth keeping an eye on what's going on in our local libraries, there are so many things for people of all ages; libraries mean so much more than books, they are inspiring educational and community hubs.”

Alex Kittow, chief executive of Libraries Unlimited, said: “This funding and the initiatives we’ve delivered has made an incredible difference to libraries and communities across Devon and Torbay. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to change people’s perception of what a library is and to develop our programme of STEM engagement and activities for children, families and adults alike.

“I’ve been inspired and humbled to see how the children's confidence, skills, friendships and ability to play transforms over the course of a LEGO coding session.”

To find out more about the Summer Spike LEGO workshop, CLICK HERE. It is £3 per child and booking is required – call 01271 318780 or visit Barnstaple Library.

To find out about more events at your local library, visit https://discover.librariesunlimited.org.uk/whats-on