Amid the pandemic, DML was dedicated to creative ways to fulfill its mission; most important was providing youth with fun and educational opportunities for at-home learning. Beyond addressing the learning loss experienced by students struggling with online school, there was also the challenge of addressing the emotional weight and stress caused by the pandemic. DML saw this as an opportunity to position itself as a partner in providing engaging STEM activities (themes changing monthly) to support home-based learning.

DML created specially branded boxes for Take and Make kits, providing a “gift box” appearance that communicated: 1) the quality of the library as an educational partner and 2) the value that the library places on the educational success of area youth.

Partner nonprofit organizations provided digital content to complement the changing monthly themes. This collaboration also worked to welcome new visitors to the library, as the partners cross-promoted the Take and Make kits with their audiences.

DML distributes 2500 kits monthly. The program launched in April 2021 for summer reading. Due to popularity, DML secured funding to extend through December 2021. Take and Make Kits provide engaging, age-appropriate STEM learning. Take and Make virtual programs have been some of the most popular offered during this hybrid time. Librarians report that families arrange to visit the branches as soon as the kits are released, and items within the box have been incredibly popular with youth.