The Copper Queen Library in Bisbee (pop. 5,300) collaborated with Cochise County and the State Library systems and developed a public makerspace for the community. With this collaboration they were able to bring an important STEM asset to a rural community. Bisbee residents now have access to a STEM book series available for early childhood to adults, STEM lab equipment, and programming for local librarians.

What was the impact?

The Makerspace is open to all ages, but mostly engages children ages 4-12. In March 2018, a summer STEM program was developed along with an early childhood math and science program. Since its launch in March 2018, the Copper Queen Mini Makerspace has seen 300+ visitors.

The resource that the library system has brought to Bisbee is continuing to impact over 300 people and get students interested in STEM at a young age. Copper Queen Library’s STEM Makerspace has become a huge resource for the community and an inspiration for young people to become more passionate about STEM.

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The Arizona Rural Activation and Innovation Network (RAIN) is funded by the National Science Foundation to oversee grant funding for informal STEM education projects in four rural Arizona communities: Cochise County, Graham and Greenlee County, the Verde Valley, and the Navapache/White Mountains region. RAIN acts as a resource for best practices in informal STEM program development and works to highlight effective STEM programs, employers  and organizations across the state of Arizona. Interested in applying for a grant? Visit our website today and learn more about the opportunities in your community.