Chicago, IL, March 15th –In support of public libraries that provide enriching educational opportunities in math and science for pre-university students, the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)-Chicago Section is pleased to announce the 2015 recipients of the IEEE “Science Kits for Public Libraries” Grant.

This Grant project is an effort to generate enthusiasm for the science and engineering professions by providing funding to Chicago area public libraries for the creation of circulating science kit collections. With science kits at public libraries, students have equal access to learning experiences they would not encounter in the traditional classroom. Students can explore, create, and discover within a guided framework, one that allows them to take control of their education.

Past public library grant recipients include Cary Area Public Library District, Crystal Lake Public Library, Frankfort Public Library District, Mount Prospect Public Library, Orland Park Public Library, and Schaumburg Township District Library. You can view some of their applications and reports at https://ieeechicago.org/Chicago-Fund/Grants-Program.

Response to this year’s program was truly impressive. Grant applications were received from 26 Public Libraries in the Chicago area. The winning libraries were selected by an Advisory Committee of IEEE members and Youth Librarians from libraries that have previously received grants and have successfully created circulating science kit collections.
Congratulations to the following 2015 “Science Kits for Public Libraries” grant recipients:

  • Bradley Public Library District
  • Chicago Public Library (6 Branches, 2 per district)
  • Cook Memorial Public Library District
  • Helen Plum Memorial Public Library District
  • Hodgkins Public Library
  • Villa Park Public Library.

The IEEE-Chicago Section’s Science Kits for Public Libraries Grant is funded by the generous donations of its 4000+ local members. Additional funding and support was provided by Motorola Solutions Inc. and S&C Electric Company.
Contact: Gene Cottini, Grant Manager, Science Kits for Public Libraries, sciencekits@ieeechicago.org