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CM-2015-725 - 3/20/2015City of Round Rock TEMeNI ROpx Agenda Item Summary Agenda Number: Title: Consider authorizing acceptance of a grant from The Texas State Library and Archives Commission through Connecting Texas Libraries Statewide (CTLS) for robotics programming by City youth patrons. Type: City Manager Item Governing Body: City Manager Approval Agenda Date: 3/20/2015 Dept Director: Michelle Cervantes, Library Director Cost: Indexes: Attachments: CMAF Grant Beneficery Designation Agreement, Bots and Books Narrative 2016 Final, cipas2016 Bots, Letter of support, Attachment A, Attachment B Department: Library Department Text of Legislative File CM -2015-725 Connecting Texas Libraries Statewide (CTLS, Inc.) provides software, equipment, supplies and training for librarians to provide robotics programming to their youth patrons. Bots and Books also incorporates a literature -based curriculum incorporating popular children's titles and characters into robotics challenges encouraging literacy, engineering, and imagination! Patrons will enjoy important STEM activities like robotics and computer programming while also encouraging reading and literacy. Staff Approval Cxy&ftmd k Pagel ei w..Ylx s CITY OF ROUND ROCK iL— MJ CONTRACT MANAGEMENT SECTION CONTRACT APPROVAL FORM FOR CITY MANAGER ACTION Required for Submission of Specific City Manager Items Department Project Mgr/Resource: Michelle Cervantes 71eity Manager Approval Project Name: Grant Beneficiary Designation Form ContractorNendor: CrLS, Inc. CMA Wording Consider authorizing acceptance of a grant from The Texas State Library and Archives Commission through Connecting Texas Libraries Statewide (CTLS) for robotics programing by City youth patrons. Approval X❑Employee EE Bowden ate March 13, 2015 3/18/15 Please send the CM approval signed form to the address below. RETURN FORM TO: Paul Waak, Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L-115, Austin, TX 78751 800-262-4431 512-583-0709 (fax) INTERNET SAFETY CERTIFICATION FOR APPLICANT/GRANTEE FOR FEDERALLY FUNDED TEXAS STATE LIBRARY & ARCtUVES COMMISSION GRANTS FEDERAL PROGRAM YEAR 2015 (AWARDED IN TEXAS STATE FISCAL YEAR 2016) GRANT PROGRAM: Competitive Grants As the duly authorized representative of the applicanVgrawee, I hereby certify that (check only one of the following boxes): X The applicant/grantee public library has complied with the requirements of Section 9134(f)(1) of the Library Services and Technology Act. ❑ The applicant/grantee public library seeks a waiver of the certification required in A., above, because State or local procurement rules or regulations or competitive bidding requirements prevent the applicant/grantee library from certifying compliance with Section 9134(f)(1) of the Library Services and Technology Act. The applicant/grantee public library certifies that the library will comply with the requirements of Section 9134(f)(1) before the start of Program Year in which funds are expended. - ❑ The requirements of Section 9134(f) of the Library Services and Technology Act do not apply to the applicant/grantee library because no funds made available under the LSTA program will be used to purchase computers used to access the Internet or to pay for direct costs associated with accessing the Internet for a public library or public elementary school or secondary school library that does not receive discounted E -Rate services under the Communications Act of 1934, as amended. ❑ The applicant/grantee is not a public library. I further certify that one of the following is true: either no LSTA funds from the grant award will be used by the applicanUgrantee to purchase computers used to access the Internet or to pay for direct costs associated with accessing the Internet for a public library or public elementary school or secondary school library served by the applicant/grantee; or, if any part of the LSTA grant funds are used for such purposes, applicanVgantee will obtain the appropriate certifications from libraries receiving such purchases or payments. igna ire of Author a present ve Lojj-';f V64 e' Printed Name of Authorized Rep sentative l..v M JUCLAQQey Title of Authrized Represe tive 3���s Date �au.nd t�K �bl�cltb,-c.nl Name of ApplicanVGramee Library/Program ROUND ROCK TEXAS February 24, 2015 Mr. Paul Waak Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite L-115 Austin, Texas 78751 Dear Mr. Waak, Mayor Councilmembers Alan McGraw Craig Morgan Frank Leffingwell Will Peckham ryor Pro -Tem John Marren George White Kris Whnfleld City Manager Laude Hadley The Round Rock Public Library strives to prepare our young people for productive careers in the next-generatlon economy. To this end, receiving a Bots and Books Grant to provide highly fun and educational STEM programming would be a great addition to our Library programs. Sincerely, 66� Brooks Bennett Assistant City Manager CITY OF ROUND ROCK 221 East Main Street, Round Rock, Texas 78664 [P] 512.218.5410 • [F] 512.218.7897 • mundmektexas.gov 'BOTS & BOOKS @ Your Library Final Draft — March 3, 2015 PROGRAM ABSTRACT: 'BOTS & BOOKS @ Your Library encourages children in grades 3-6 to develop skills in teamwork and programming with robotics using children's literature favorites as a basis. A specially -created curriculum based on four popular children's books was developed for the 2015 grant and can be used again if the grant is awarded. CTLS staff selected 10 public libraries from among our 166 members across Texas, grouping them for training purposes and ease of sharing ideas. The program will capture the imaginations of participating children while giving them the technical skills to create and manipulate robots that will act out the characters in the books. Children will get comfortable with technology in the non -threatening environment of their hometown public library. Local partners will be recruited by the libraries to assist with the programs for the children. 1. NEEDS ASSESSMENT 15 points In a StemSchool.com article posted on December 9, 2012, (www.stemschool.com/articles/What-is-stem-education/), the importance of STEM education in a competitive global marketplace is stressed. "The Program of International Student Assessment (PISA) ranked 15 -year-old U. S. high school students 18th in mathematics and 13" in science... based on data from 34 participating nations. Some of the countries with higher student scores included much smaller and far less wealthy nations like Estonia, Slovenia, and Finland. It was apparent that the U. S. educational system needed significant improvement in these areas if the students who would be the workforce of tomorrow were to have a competitive edge in a globalized, high-tech marketplace." In a press release dated 8-26-2014, Rep. Joaquin Castro of San Antonio proposed an act to create a grant to encourage afterschool programs to bolster STEM learning. (http://castro. h ouse. goy/med i a-center/press-releases/castro-h ighlights-stem-ed ucation- efforts-as-san-antonians-go-back-to-school/) "As we continue to diversify our economy and ensure that students... have the opportunity to stay home and contribute to our own community, we must continue to strengthen the educational opportunities in STEM that will lead to 21at Century jobs in innovation and technology." "Informal STEM education is a critical component needed to energize the next generation of engineers, researchers, and programmers that will form the backbone of tomorrow's workforce." Molly Clayton, Executive Director, Texas Partnership for Out of School Time (quoted in the press release). "From visiting museums to participating in robotics competitions to designing and building and engineering all sorts of hands on learning projects and experiences, the informal and afterschool environment offers students many different ways to engage in the STEM fields and to experience them first hand.... (We) are helping (prepare) students for the best STEM jobs of the future." James Brown, Executive Director, STEM Education Coalition (quoted in the press release) DEMAND FROM TEXAS LIBRARIES FOR STEM PROGRAM SUPPORT c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary interact files\content.outlook\7zthh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxPage 1 of 10 When CTLS asked member libraries last year about their interest in a possible robotics grant, the response was incredible. The success of the first year has attracted 35 more libraries, representing almost every region of the state, that would like to be included in this grant. Ten libraries, 70% of them rural, will be involved in the program in FY 2016. These same 7 libraries serve populations with poverty levels in the double digits. (U. S. Census website, www.guickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/48000.htmi) The enthusiastic response from the membership is a strong indicator of the need for this type of STEM programming and support in Texas public libraries. 'BOTS & BOOKS will expand STEM learning for elementary -aged children by: • Bringing hands-on robotics and STEM activities to children in a relaxed public library setting • Integrating popular book titles into the robotics program in ways that encourage reading (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Avengers series, James and the Giant Peach, and The Jungle Book) • Providing resources for children that expand their interest in STEM subjects • Training librarians to use robotics resources to engage children in STEM projects • Providing robotics programs to 1,000 children that will help them develop future workforce skills such as teamwork, problem solving, and project management. The project will develop public and private partnerships with other agencies and community-based organizations by: • Encouraging partnerships among CTLS, local libraries, and local STEM related businesses and organizations • Creating new connections with local robotics organizations, youth organizations, and home schooled children and their parents. AUDIENCE: 'BOTS & BOOKS @ Your Library will target Texas school children in grades 3 through 6 in 10 communities in Texas. We estimate that 1,000 children will participate in library robotics programs hosted in participating public libraries throughout the year. Children will be recruited for this program by their local librarians who will schedule the activities to complement existing library programs. If there are local robotics clubs in participating communities, club members will be recruited to help the local library organize and conduct the library based robotics challenges. Programs will be open to all children on an equal basis. The only limitation will be the room and equipment capacity. All programs will be free. COMMUNITIES TO BE SERVED: The Project will serve 10 libraries in communities of all sizes across Texas. Participating libraries include: c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7zfh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxP•ae 2 or 10 West Texas: Brady, San Angelo, Sterling City Central Texas: Elgin, Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, Schulenburg Coastal Bend: Pasadena, Santa Fe See ATTACHMENT A for Letters of Commitment from participating libraries 2. PROGRAM DESIGN: 20 points SERVICES, PROGRAMS, AND ACTIVITIES: 'BOTS & BOOKS @ Your Library will give librarians in 10 public libraries across Texas the equipment, supplies, materials and training they need to develop robotics programs in their library. Intended as a collaborative project, this informal science project will captivate youth through the school year and over the summer to remain engaged in learning at their public libraries. This program incorporates these ideas, which support the development of high quality STEM programs that attract students who use both school and public libraries: 1. Bring high quality literature -based robotics activities to children served by public libraries in communities all over Texas 2. Promote local partnerships in each region to support the programs 3. Train library staff on starting and managing library robotics programs. 4. Provide libraries with materials, equipment, supplies, and training to prepare and present these programs. 5. Share best practices and successful methods from other library -based robotics programs from around the country. LIBRARY ROBOTICS PROGRAMS: Both Legos and robotics programs are taking off in many libraries. We anticipate that once the word gets out in these communities that the public library is sponsoring a Lego robotics program, children will form a line at the door. We expect that the library staff will not have robotics knowledge or training, and our professional trainers will work with library staff to make sure they are comfortable with the equipment. Lego WeDoTM Robotics will be used in this program because it has widespread appeal and is relatively simple to use. The Lego Robotics product line is used nationwide for robotics programs. The grant will purchase the WeDo ® robotics product, suitable for children in the elementary grades 3-6. Each library will receive a pack of 8 robots in the WeDo m product line. Each robot is programmed and operated by two children, thus allowing up to 16 children to participate in a library program at a time. The support materials include the props, challenge board, and software. 8 inexpensive laptops will be purchased for each location to be used to run the robots. High quality training is critical to the success of the program. The experienced trainers used in the current year's grant will present all -day workshops in three locations around c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\micromft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7zth2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxvaw 3 or 10 the state. A follow-up webinar will reinforce information pertinent to the project's success. Participants will then be ready to present robotics programs starting in January. CTLS staff will provide telephone and online support to participants as they implement and continue their robotics programs. We will also publicize the program in our newsletter and on our website to keep the excitement building. (See ATTACHMENT B for a complete list of LEGOS components for WeDo.) DEVELOPING DIVERSE STATEWIDE PARTNERSHIPS CTLS works with other nonprofit groups, public libraries, clubs, and individuals for the purpose of promoting STEM education and careers to children across Texas. 'Bots R Books @ Your Library received endorsements from the American Library Association, Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering, Texas Girls Collaborative Project and the Women in Engineering Program at the University of Texas. These institutions will provide assistance upon request. IDENTIFYING LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS The participating 10 public libraries have begun to identify partners in their communities who can help them successfully implement'Bots & Books in their libraries. Friends of the Library, Scout groups, 4-H groups and robotics clubs have all stepped forward to help. Home-school groups will be invited to participate as well. As the year progresses, the librarians will continue to seek out partners to assist if the grant is awarded. Letters of commitment (included) show the support in each community. TRAINING LIBRARY STAFF: This grant project will provide training for library staff so that they can create and present literature -based robotics programs for the children in their communities. The professional trainers CTLS found for the current grant year are highly regarded and did a creditable job with this year's librarians. During October and November an intensive one -day (8 hour) training session will be given in 3 locations (Elgin, Pasadena, and San Angelo), followed by a webinar on relevant topics. Subsequent contact with library staff will be frequent and informative. The training will help library staff: • Learn how to construct the Legos robots • Program the robots to use with the curriculum • Learn how to manage robotics programs in their libraries • Find and choose STEM resources for their libraries • Construct literature -based programs for future robotics activities • Connect to other libraries to share ideas and successes. • Learn how to identify local partners who can help with the programs. • Understand how to get local support to assist in continuing the program after the end of the grant year. The 4 books to be used in the training are: Diary of a Kimpy Kid, James and the Giant Peach, The Avengers (series), and the Jungle Book. Librarians can use what they learn c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7zth2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxPsge 4 of 10 from working with these books to create similar literature -based robotics programs using other well-known children's books. We will encourage them to share with the other librarians in the grant. ATTRACTING SHARED LIBRARY USERS: School libraries and school districts in participating communities will be able to use the LEGOS robotics materials and programming. Librarians in the grant will be encouraged to connect with their local school librarians to do joint projects. CTLS staff will compile lists of resources for participants, including books, websites, and potential program presenters on STEM subjects. Staff will also work with individual libraries on tapping local resources for assistance in continuing the learning beyond the grant year. 3. PROJECT IMPACT: 15 points LOCALIMPACT: 1. Children in the participating libraries will learn how to build and program robots to match the characters in the books. Because of the relaxed setting of the public library, this "painless learning' will seem like fun. 2. Librarians will see an increased interest in library programs by higher attendance and enthusiasm from participants. 3. Community partners involved in the programs will develop a new respect for the library as an institution that promotes lifelong learning and cutting-edge programs. 4. Librarians who learn the programming and building will have an increased confidence in their ability to present technical programs for youth. STATEWIDE IMPACT: 1. Libraries in 10 communities in Texas will benefit from this grant: West Texas (Brady, San Angelo, and Sterling City), the Coastal Bend (Pasadena and Santa Fe), and Central Texas (Elgin, Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, and Schulenburg). CTLS will help these libraries develop solid, workable relationships in their communities and within their group for future programming. 2. Public libraries currently presenting robotics programs, or hoping to, will connect with these libraries to form a community of libraries doing similar programming. 3. Carefully developed literature -based robotics programming will be available statewide to public libraries. 4. This program is a model that can be duplicated across the state. 4. PERSONNEL: 5 points CTLS, Inc. is the lead applicant for this grant and its staff will administer all grant funds. PROJECT FUNDED PERSONNEL: Katelyn Patterson Youth Specialist / Project Manager 0.3 FTE c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary intemet files\content.outlook\7zfh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxpage 5 or 10 MLIS, University of North Texas 2013 The CTLS Youth Services Specialist will oversee the implementation and coordination of the project. Katelyn has worked for CTLS, Inc., for over 7 years and has extensive experience with member libraries. She has also volunteered at the Austin Public Library. Responsibilities: Organizing training; ordering, organizing, and delivery of materials and resources; organizing the webinar; managing outreach publicity and scheduling. PRO BONO PERSONNEL CONTRIBUTING TO THE PROJECT: Laurie Mahaffey, MLS Executive Director / Funds Administrator 0.00 FTE MLS, University of Texas at Austin 1974 Laurie Mahaffey, CTLS Executive Director, has over 40 years' experience as a library consultant, trainer, and manager. She has been with CTLS, Inc., for 24 years. Responsibilities: Contract administration, financial tracking and reporting, FSR preparation and submission, quarterly LBB program reporting, program personnel documentation. Ms. Mahaffey has been performing these duties for grants the system office has this year. Paul Weak, MLS Assistant Executive Director / Tech Support 0.00 FTE MLS, University of North Texas 2001 Paul Weak, CTLS Assistant Executive Director, has over 25 years' experience as a technology consultant and manager and over 15 years' experience in public libraries. Responsibilities: Technical support for the WeDo kits, curriculum support. Paul is able to troubleshoot computer problems and understands programming. Children's Librarians Participating libraries 100 hours/library pro bono Children's librarians will provide direct delivery of grant services. The participating libraries have one Children's Librarian or a staff member who does children's services Responsibilities: Attending training, working with local partners, scheduling and presenting robotics programs, collecting evaluation data. CONTRACTUAL SERVICES: Well-qualified trainers with experience establishing robotics programs in libraries will give a one -day training session in 3 locations around the state. These experts were identified this year when we searched for trainers for the current grant. Their training will provide an intensive hands-on learning experience to equip library staff with the skills needed to establish local robotics programs. This training will be open to member libraries all over the state that want to offer robotics programs to their communities. c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7ztb2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 ftnal.docxvase 6 of 10 The webinar provided by the trainers will emphasize the value of collaborating with local schools, businesses, and community groups to bring this to the children in their communities. The webinar will also reinforce the training provided in the one -day session and answer questions participants have so far. 5. TIMETABLE: 5 points Date Activity September 2015 Connect with trainers, tweak curriculum, and schedule training dates for the new fiscal year. Develop evaluations, supplemental materials, and memoranda of understanding with partner libraries and organizations. September— October Purchase LEGOS kits, small tools, software, and laptops for 2015 participating libraries October— November Library staff trained on establishing and implementation of 2015 robotics programs in libraries January 2016 — May Libraries begin implementing robotics programs in the library 2016 or in other locations as local needs require. Local partners for each participating library are involved in the roll-out of the programs. School partners collaborate with libraries to promote joint programs, where appropriate. Local librarians present programs in the library, community, and schools and do other outreach January 2016 — May CTLS staff supports library partners with telephone, email, 2016 and on-site consulting as needed. Library staff plan hands-on summer programs; take -away materials developed and distributed June 2016 —August Library partners present robotics programs as a part of 2016 summer activities. 09/01/16 Collate surveys, submit final report 6. EVALUATION: 10 points We will evaluate the program in accordance with standard grant requirements. In addition, we will incorporate student -friendly evaluation methods developed by the informal science learning leaders such as the National Robotics Network. Outcome 1: Participating children will show an increased knowledge of and/or interest in robotics. Method of Data Collection for Outcome 1: Collect the number of students, parents, and teachers who attend 'BOTS & BOOKS. Survey participants before and after programs to see what skills and interest they feel they have gained from the experience. Effectiveness of Service for Outcome 1: c:\users\lorao\appdata\local\micwsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7zfb2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 frnal.docxPage 7 of 10 75% of students responding will report they increased their knowledge of and/or interest in robotics after attending a'BOTS & BOOKS program Outcome 2: Library staff will gain knowledge on literature -based robotics and how to present library programs using this information. Method of Data Collection for Outcome 2: Collect the number of library staff attending 'BOTS & BOOKS training Collect pre- and post -session evaluations from librarians to indicate increased knowledge of and confidence in presenting robotics programs in the library. Effectiveness of Service for Outcome 2: 80% of library staff will demonstrate increased knowledge after'BOTS & BOOKS training. 80% will continue presenting robotics programs at their libraries. Outcome 3: Library staff will develop community partners to assist with the programs. Method of Data Collection for Outcome 3: Collect the number of community partners each library connects with. Effectiveness of Service for Outcome 3: 75% of libraries will report one or more community partners who assist with the programs. 7. BUDGET: 20 points Categories of Expenditures Bots & Books - 2016 1,349 Overhead Salaries 0 Benefits 0 Office Use 1,349 15,485 Personnel Salaries 13,728 Benefits 1,757 1,200 Travel 8 Training Costs Travel 1,200 Equipment 21,500 c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.outlook\7zfh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxPage 8 of 10 Computers 21,500 Materials & supplies 24,990 21,300 Robotics Kits Support supplies and materials 3,690 Contractual services 10,476 Trainers 10,476 Operational Costs Other 0 Phones/Internet 0 Postage 0 Totals By Program 75,000 State Budget Categories Personnel 13,728 Fringe Benefits 1,757 Travel 1,200 Equipment 2111,500 Materials & Supplies 24,990 Contracts 10,476 Overhead 1,349 TOTAL 75,000 Budget notes: The current CTLS pay scale for a youth services librarian was used for the person who will coordinate the grant. Prices for components in the current grant year were used to determine materials, supplies, and equipment costs. Because the staff are all continuing CTLS staff members, there will be no lag time in the start of personnel working on the grant at the beginning of the grant year. 8. SUSTAINABILITY: 10 points Participating libraries will continue to offer robotics programs beyond the end of the grant year. Local Friends of the Library groups will be asked to support these programs by replacing lost and missing pieces of equipment and by sponsoring clubs and special events. Libraries will partner with local schools and organizations to extend these resources beyond the doors of the public library. c:\users\dorao\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet files\content.oudook\7zfh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 final.docxpage 9 of 10 Libraries in the grant will be connected with the libraries who are participating this year to promote collaborations for robotics and STEM programming in libraries. Participating librarians will contribute programming ideas for others and gather information for continued STEM programming in their libraries. The American Library Association, The National Center for Interactive Learning at the Space Science Institute, the Lunar and Planetary Institute, and the National Girls Collaborative Project all support a community of practice (CoP) that libraries can join to continue working in this area. Texas Girls Collaborative Project has a statewide networking presence and will assist librarians with community connections, hands-on engineering, and science curriculum and community resources that will have the potential to sustain the effort beyond the life of the grant. CTLS will seek grant funding from private foundations and corporations to continue the project for additional years. ATTACHMENTS ATTACHMENT A: Letters of Commitment from Participating Libraries ATTACHMENT & LEGOS WeDo ©materials list with unit and extended prices c:\users\domo\appdata\local\microsoft\windows\temporary internet - files\content.oudook\7zfh2yao\bots and books narrative 2016 fmal.docxpage 10 of 10 ATTACHMENT A LETTERS OF SUPPORT CTLS 2016 GRANT APPLICATION LIBRARY COOPERATION GRANT `BOTS AND BOOKS REVISITED MARCH 2015 Elgin Public Library 404 North Main Street Elgin, Texas 78641 514.481.5678 February 27, 2015 Paul Waak, Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. 1!115, Austin, TX 78751 To whom it concerns The Elgin Public Library would like to participate in the Bots'n Books grant with CTLS. We understand that five things are needed from us as participating library plus one additional thing from the libraries that host the librarian training. 1) This letter of support fi-om our governing body. 4) We will send at least one person, two if possible, to each training. S) We will conduct at least one event using the Lego WeDo kits. 4) We will find at least one community partner to participate in the Lego WeDo event. 5) Be a CELS member. +1) We will schedule use of a meeting room for librarian training which will take place in October -November 2015. Sincere thanks for this opportunity, 4.4,v Oft Sandy Ott Library Director GEORGETOWN PVBLIC LIBRARY CITY OF GEORGETOWN Q-GZ,GE76WN February 26, 2015 To Whom It May Concern, The Georgetown Public Library supports CRS, Inc.'s grant application for the 2015-16 Bots and Books program. Our library would be please to provide space, staff and resources to bring this program to our library. We are very excited about have a program of this caliber come to our library. I enthusiastically support CTLS's application. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your rconsideration. /Sinnce�ely, v Eric P. Lashley Library Services Director 402 W. 8th Street I Georgetmvn, Texas 78626 1 librarygeorgetown.amg (512)930-3551 1 18121930-3764(fas) 1.-lill Public 46„ THE Hun rHe Hrti 355 Loop 332 Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 512.778.6400 February 28, 2015 CTLS 5555 North Lamar Boulevard Suite 115 Austin, Texas 78751 To Whom It May Concern Liberty HiB Public Library is very excited about and welcomes the opportunity to be a part of the `Bots and Books Grant that CTLS is applying for. This program would bring a new opportunity to the children of Liberty Hill that they have never had an opportunity to participate in before. We have three staff members (two full-time and one part-time) that would be able to attend any twining sessions that will be held as we prepare to present programs to our young patrons. We have two areas that we could use to present programs once the staff is trained. We can use our indoor space in the children's area in the library and we can also use the large covered outdoor building in Lion's Foundation Park, where the library is located. We have computer access in this building as our Wi-Fi network extends to this area. One local business, John M. Clark Farmers Insurance Agency, a local high school science teacher, National Honor Society volunteers from Liberty Hill High School, and members of our local 4-H Robotics Club have all agreed to provide assistance for our programs. One of the library employees, who can also attend training m stated above, is a retired science teacher and is very excited about bringing this program to our 3-6 grade patrons. The hardware, software, and training that the grant provides will give us to put on amazing, fun, and educational programs that have never been offered to our youth before. The very robust attendance at our previous STEM programs have shown that there is an exceptionally healthy interest and need for this type of programming at our library. We are honored and excited to have this opportunity. Sincerely, Angela K. Palmer Library Director Liberty Hill Public Library ROUND ROCK TEXAS ADMIHISr uorum DEMIRTMENT February 24, 2015 Mr. Paul Weak Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite L-115 Austin, Texas 78751 Dear Mr. Waak, Mayor Counclimembers City Manager Alan McGraw Craig Morgan Laurie Hadley Frank Leffing"ll Will Peckham Mayor Pro -Tem John Moman City Attorney George White Kris Whitfield Stephan L Sheets The Round Rock Public Library strives to prepare our young people for productive careers in the next -generation economy. To this end, receiving a Bars and Books Grant to provide highly fun and educational STEM programming would be a great addition to our Library programs. Sincerely, y � 6a � Brooks Bennett Assistant City Manager CITY OF ROUND ROCK 221 East Main Street, Round Rock, Texas 78664 [P] 512.216.5410 . [F] 512.218.7097 . roundrocktexas.gev Feb. 18, 2015 Mr. Paul Weak Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L-115 Austin, TX 78751 Dear Mr. Waak PASADENA PUBLIC LIBRARY Tt as Simkk, Library Di a for 7134754968 M;mieIe@ci.pasadena.tx.us 1201 Jeff Ginn Memorial Drive Pasadena, TX 77506 I am writing to express my approval for the implementation of the robotics programs in Pasadena Public Library made possible by the Bots and Books grant. We commit to sending at least two staff members to attend 2 full days of training in October or November 2015. If chosen, we would also be willing to host the training session at our library. In conclusion, I fully support the efforts of the library staff as they put on robotics programs designed to help our students to explore real-world math and science by building robotics. Sin ry, Thomas Simiele pKt 1 JM GMT,M eua t Wane Wpq RCI♦ wears •dr.' Jr�e,r RUCt 0 Iev,KC,wwr February 23, 2015 www. R. WOOD Mr. Paul Waak, Asst. Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L -I 15 Austin, TX 78751 Dear Mr. Waak: On behalf of the City Council of Santa Fe, Texas, 1 would like to express the City's support of the Mae S. Bruce Library's participation in the Bois and Books Grant for 1015-16. City Council members endorse the Library's current Strategic Plan goals, one of which includes creating and supporting a community of life-long learners by endeavoring to present educational, cultural, and recreational programs that reflect community needs and interests. We look forward to partnering with CTLS, Inc. to provide appropriate programming for the young people of our community. Sincerely, J/ l�/v yn���� Ralph Stenzel, yor RS/bc I.O. ! 950 Ston Fe, Tvu 7751x0950 fM) 9256112 Fu: f 09) 3161911 M . N091316JNS wWw.cl.ult,f/e.d.us CITY OF JY oe.w, SQA FE p.. rrmww. Iu1 J. OAmp C}wwF OPn[O piwC1M pw l,maa, Ww,e Lra�r p�s,w e�rlu�wramw CRww ltwwws l,ew,r ps,ew Bne,b Gw,u,. Co-lw, Me+wAuan Ibrt lWrr www. R. WOOD Mr. Paul Waak, Asst. Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L -I 15 Austin, TX 78751 Dear Mr. Waak: On behalf of the City Council of Santa Fe, Texas, 1 would like to express the City's support of the Mae S. Bruce Library's participation in the Bois and Books Grant for 1015-16. City Council members endorse the Library's current Strategic Plan goals, one of which includes creating and supporting a community of life-long learners by endeavoring to present educational, cultural, and recreational programs that reflect community needs and interests. We look forward to partnering with CTLS, Inc. to provide appropriate programming for the young people of our community. Sincerely, J/ l�/v yn���� Ralph Stenzel, yor RS/bc I.O. ! 950 Ston Fe, Tvu 7751x0950 fM) 9256112 Fu: f 09) 3161911 M . N091316JNS wWw.cl.ult,f/e.d.us Tom Green County (� w Library System 0J' Son Angelo, TX 33 West Beauregard San Angelo, Texas 76903-5887 (325) 655-7321 Fax (325) 659-4027 February 20, 2015 Mr. Paul Weak, Assistant Executive Director Connecting Texas Libraries Statewide, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L-115 Austin, TX 78751 Dear Mr. Weak TGC Library enthusiastically supports CTLS' pursuft of a Bots and Books Grant and further, we would like to be involved as much as possible. To that end, we will make the Sugg Community Room located on the third floor of our main library available for librarian training and other "Lego WeDo Robotics" events at no cost. You need only to call to secure the dates and fill out a simple application form. TGC Library is committed to sending members of our staff and branches for the training and to conduct at least one event using the Lego WeDo kits. The Tom Green County 4H, which has a robotics program in place, has agreed to partner with us. Their group has approximately 12 who already work in robotics, three leaders and 50 active members that would be prospective participants. We look forward to working with other libraries here in West Texas and with CTLS to bring the Lego WeDo programs to our patrons. We are finding that programs of this type are eagerly received and we definitely want to keep abreast of these rapidly expanding and changing fields of library programs. Please let me know what else TGC Library can do to assist making this endeavor successful. Sin re Jill Donegan Director 339915 Schulenburg Public Library 310 Simpson St. Schulenburg, Texas 78956 Paul Waak, Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L-115 Austin, Texas 78751 March 3, 2015 Dear Mr. Waak, imga29jpg The Schulenburg Public library is excited about the CTLS Robotics project. The library has asked the Friends to be the community partner to help us. We send 2 people to be trained to work with the project. This will be an awesome project and will help the children of our community. Sincerely, " , •lG«ls�c�l� rei� Thadious Polasek Library Director Schulenburg Public Library Mlpa:/ItrivegppyecpmMlvVMny-trlw ��� 03/03/2015 18:45 9797432065 56FUBLIBRARY PACE 01/61 Schnlenburg Library Friends Foundation, Inc. 310 Simpson Schulenburg, TX 78956 Contact. Ion Beebe, Presidtnt Fbote:(979)561-6291 Fax: (979)743-2065 Email: danonchaser2 a@yahoo.com Paul Waak, Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd. Ste L-115 Austin, TX. 78751 Feb. 26, 2015 Dear Mr. Waak, The Schulenburg Library Friends Foundation Inc., along with the Schulenburg Public Library will benefit greatly from this grant. We foresee and increase in library usage, new patrons and knowledge of robotics that we never expected to have at this library. Sincerely, Jon Beebe P sident, Friends of the Library. 2015 -Mar -02 0130 PM A I March 2, 2015 Paul Weak Assistant Executive Director CTLS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd., Ste. L-115, Ausdn, 7%78751 800-262-4431 512-583.0709(fax) www.ctls.net Subject: Letter of Support for Bots and Books Grant for Sterling County Public Library Dear Mr, Weak: 871 Hereby, I would kindly Ilk@ to support the got and Books program to benefit Sterling County Public Library. I would be willing to implement project activities described In the grant application. The project will be implemented In the period of 2013/2015 fiscal year. Thanks to your assistance, Sterling County Public Library will be able to Improve Its outreach to Our young Patrons, which will result greater Interest In the library, and provide a direct benefit to our young patrons. Thank you end I look forward to receiving your feedback. Sincerely, giaim A" - Jessica Floras, Library Director Sterling County Public Library PO Box 1130, 301 Main St. Sterling City, TX 76951 325-378.2212 325.378-3303 (fax) stcolibilinverizon.net Mar 02 15 02:36p Richards Library (325) 567-0461 p.2 Danny Neal McCulloch County Judge McCulloch County Courthouse, Room 302 Brady, Texas 76825 325597.0733 ext. 4 fax 325.597.2980 i udecneallr&hohnail.com February 18, 2015 C.I'LS, Inc. 5555 North Lamar Blvd.. Sic. L -I 15 Austin. TX 78751 RE: Bots and Books Grant for 2015-16 Ib whom it may concern I bank you for your careful consideration of the F. M. Richards Memorial Library's grant application for the Buts and Books program for 2015-2016. Locally, our Library is working diligently to remind our citizens that their Library is not just about books, Ina more about Icaming. To that end, the Library routinely presents Science, Technology. Engineering and Math (STEM) programs through 4-11 and other efforts to reach children and adults at all levels. Again. thank you for your consideration of this application Sincerely, . Danny N 1 McCulloch County Judge Mar 02 15 02:36p Richards Library (325) 597-0461 P.1 li fis. ei.awln&. &84. T 75825 325597-2617 325597-0161 Fax To: Paul Weak From: Stefanie Bara Fax: 512-5133-0709 Pages: 2 Phone: 325-597-2617 Date•. 03/02/2015 Re: Bots 8 Books ee: 0 Urgent 0 For Review 0 Please Comment 0 Please Reply 0 Please Recycle Comments: We do have a community that is very interested in STEM programming here at the library. Last year's Fizz, Boom, Read program was our most successful summer program to date, We recently started a monthly rocket dub in collaboration with the local 4-H group. The program attendance has been phenomenal. The children eagerly wait for the next program. h {)27J/7\ -000o `® #�22@ / ,_;$ }I{ I\\ (7§ { )k( }K§ }Er ( (( I\\ (7§ { ( (( • :::::,� „: ;;| ! !! § �E \ \ \ )