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In this increasingly technological world, science, technology, engineering, and mathematical (STEM) skills are key to a child’s success. Harford County Public Library recognizes the importance of fostering STEM talent and has developed the Learn, Explore, and Play or LEAP Program, a series of fun, free, educational programming and equipment kits to enhance interest and competence in these fields.

Sponsor a LEAP Kit now!

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Latest Update: Take a virtual field trip

Science museums are not only great places to visit, they often have fantastic information and activities on their websites. Here are a few favorites from across the United States and around the world.

The Smithsonian Institution
Washington, DC
http://www.si.edu/Museums
Did you know that the Smithsonian is actually 19 different museums and galleries, plus the National Zoo? You can take a 3-D virtual tour of a dinosaur exhibit, learn the stories behind great inventions, or even participate in “Vanished,” an 8-week episodic quest to solve an environmental disaster. Start at the webpage above and select the “Kids” tab to move around, or go directly to your favorite museum.

American Museum of Natural History
New York, New York
http://www.amnh.org/ology/
The “Ology” section of the website contains hundreds of activities, games, and informational articles about many different areas of science including dinosaurs, marine biology, and insects. As you explore, you can collect “Ology” cards.

The Museum of Science and Industry
Chicago, Illinois
http://msichicago.org/online-science
This website from the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, contains videos, activities, and podcasts for all ages. Learn how to build an electric motor or watch baby chicks hatch. Podcasts feature interviews with science experts.

The Exploratorium
San Francisco, California
http://www.exploratorium.edu/explore/
The Exploratorium isn’t just a museum, it’s an ongoing exploration of science, art, and human perception - a vast collection of online interactives, web features, activities, programs and events that feed your curiosity.

The Natural History Museum
London, England
http://www.nhm.ac.uk/kids-only/
Travel across the Atlantic Ocean and explore one of the world’s largest natural history museums. You can even watch flesh-eating beetles clean up skeletons for the museum!

Questacon
Canberra, Australia
http://www.questacon.edu.au/scislands/
Explore a variety of science topics on the “ScIslands” from Questacon. What kinds of science interests people in the land down under?