Children working on their Lego creations. Photo/Supplied
Children working on their Lego creations. Photo/Supplied
The community has been getting a small taste of some of the fun technology and programmes that will be available at Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri.
Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri will open on February 3 at 1127 Haupapa St.
Rotorua programmes and marketing lead Karisma Vala says the community has had a taste of what is to come and has loved it.
"Our first Steam event explored robotics and was a big hit with children, but the thing that surprised us most was how much interest there has been from parents!
"We will be offering opportunities in the new library for adults to come along and have a go on the equipment as well."
She says the library also has 3D printers working each day until it moves, printing small replicas of historic museum pieces, which the public are invited to view.
"There has been a great deal of interest in these, with many people stopping to ask questions and learn about this fascinating technology.
Karisma says the Summer of Steam equipment will be in permanent use as part of the Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri Makerspace, which will be on the second floor of the new library.
Generous sponsorship from BayTrust, the Wright Family Foundation and Tompkins Wake made the purchase of this new equipment possible, she says.
Library youth and early learning specialist Te Aroha Rangi reads a story to the group at the start of the Kip McGrath Education Centre Lego STEAM Session. Photo/Supplied
"We have plenty of innovative programmes for children and adults planned for later in the year so watch this space."
The Summer of Steam programme includes a musical puppet show from the Toro Pikopiko company, which took place yesterdayand again this coming Thursday, 10.30am to 11.30am.
She says you do not need to book for this, but do need to reserve a place.
There are two more Steam sessions with limited places available.
Details are available on the Rotorua Library website.
"There is something for every family in our holiday programmes, with lots of variety and hassle free opportunities to entertain, inspire and educate the kids.
"I don't remember having these sorts of affordable opportunities at my local library when I was young."
Karisma says the aim with every programme is to create opportunities for individuals and families to learn and have fun.
"You can expect to see a lot more of these opportunities at Rotorua Library Te Aka Mauri in 2018. There really will be something for everyone at the new library.
On February 3 an open day is being held, allowing people to take a look around the new library, the Children's Health Hub and the redeveloped Jean Batten Square.
