By Paige Gurgainers

Webster Parish Libraries will be kicking off this summer’s Discovery Camp with Science Week. From June 10 –15, participants of all ages will have a unique opportunity to explore the world of science with engaging STEM-inspired activities, programs and demonstrations.  

During Science Week, the LSU AgCenter of Webster and Claiborne parishes will have a special presentation – the Germ Cave Exhibit. The exhibit will be open at the Minden library branch on Tuesday, June 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. and at the Springhill branch on Friday, June 14 from noon to 2 p.m. No registration is required for this event.  

According to Kim Sentell, Director of Marketing for Webster Parish Libraries, the Germ Cave is an innovative educational tool that offers a unique blend of entertainment and enlightenment, captivating young minds and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of science and microbiology.  

Participants will encounter glowing representations of bacteria, interactive displays demonstrating food safety principles, and engaging demonstrations highlighting the importance of proper handwashing techniques and the essential four steps of food safety.  

Following Science Week, participants will delve into the realm of technology from June 17 to June 22. As Technology Week draws to a close, Engineering Week takes center stage from June 24 to June 29, and rounding out the Webster Parish Libraries – Discovery Camp 2024 lineup is Mathematics Week, which takes place from July 1 to July 6.

Registration for camp is set for Saturday, June 8, at both Minden and Springhill locations. Registration Day will be filled with entertainment and exploration including a highlighted feature- the Discovery Dome. This dome is a state-of-the-art inflated dome theatre provided graciously by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.  

Registration at the Minden location will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and from 3 to 6 p.m. in Springhill. In order to ensure everyone has a chance to experience the Discovery Dome, registration is necessary.  

Discovery Camp 2024 will offer an opportunity to also earn library bucks for every book read or special performance attended. These bucks can be traded for incentives that will further engage children to experience other resources available to them through the library system. All books read must be logged into Beanstack.  

For more details on Discovery Camp 2024 and its exciting lineup of activities or for more information on Beanstack, updates can be found on the Webster Parish Libraries Facebook page or by visiting their website at http://www.websterpl.org.