Library NExT: (Network of Education “x” Training)
San Diego Public Library, Calif.
Innovation Synopsis
Library NExT is a three-part program series including Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) workshops; College and Test Prep; and a Certificate program. Library NExT bridges formal and informal education and prepares students for their “next” steps in life; whether it be enrollment in a 4-year research university, a community college or a career.
Challenge/Opportunity
Challenge: Including underserved communities as we build career opportunities in our innovation economy.
Opportunity: Library NExT prepares students for these career paths through cutting-edge education programs. It increases access to advanced STEAM education, college preparation and workforce development training through cumulative, hands-on learning engagements in 11 of our libraries. In 2017 we held year-round workshops in four libraries, and we will expand to 15 of our 36 libraries by the end of 2018.
Key Elements of Innovation
Library NExT works in partnership with participants, universities and industry to create a network of access to learning opportunities and pathways to careers and higher learning. The collaborative development process is innovative in and of itself, and the programs are outcomes of the culmination of the partnership between a large urban library system and a large research university. NExT focuses on serving youth in underserved communities that could not afford this training in traditional settings.
Achieved Outcomes
Library NExT provides equitable access to STEAM curriculum and College Prep workshops for middle and high school students at a critical juncture in their academic careers. In the long term we want Library NExT to connect students to future job opportunities and local career pathways. So far, there have been 389 hours of instruction to 1086 students since Library NExT began in January 2017.
