LEGO bricks, software called Scratch and a learning program named Bugs and Slugs will infest this summer’s kids camp sessions at the Irene Ingle Public Library.

The LEGO pieces will be used in an introduction to computer applications, while Bugs and Slugs will show children that even small creatures have special skills.

The library received a $20,000 Alaska Community Foundation grant to buy materials and supplies for the day camp sessions.

“We are committed to offering summer programming, and we are excited to offer something fun this summer. The topics were chosen because we have staff capable of teaching them, and they are the kinds of things that as young people learn the basics they can then go deeper on their own,” said Sarah Scambler, library director.

Her summary echoes what the Alaska Community Foundation describes on its website: “The purpose of the grant awards is to foster building confidence, connection and skills that last far beyond summer.”

Scambler said this is a one-year grant, allowing staff to offer the sessions as a pilot program. “It’s all STEM-themed and very hands-on.” STEM includes science, technology, engineering and math.

Each class is limited to eight participants.

For the LEGO computer science class, children going into first through third grades will meet from 10 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday the week of June 1. Those going into fourth through sixth grades will meet from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. weekdays that week.

Scratch camp (coding class) is set for the next week, June 8-12, on the same schedule.

The week of June 15-19 will offer Bugs and Slugs for first through third graders from 10 a.m. to noon weekdays; and Tinkercad and 3D printing for fourth through sixth graders from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. weekdays.

The week of June 22-26 has LEGO computer science and artificial intelligence scheduled for seventh through ninth graders from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

After that first round of classes, everything will repeat beginning July 6, so that new groups can participate.

“Kids can register to attend the repeat sessions, but first priority will be for those who haven’t had a chance to participate,” said Scambler. The library will also maintain a waitlist, so that every available spot is filled.

“We felt there isn’t a lot of consistent summer activities for young people. This allows us to offer what we think will be both fun and useful,” said Scambler.

The cost is $25 per week per participant. The library will also offer a sliding scale to ensure everyone who wants to participate has the opportunity.

Registration for the sessions will begin May 13 on the library website. For more information, call the library at 907-874-3535.

Chana Garrett, the programming librarian who will lead the sessions, predicts: “I think the kids are going to have a blast.”