This month, St. Louisans can explore space, craft their own geodes, cook using tricks of chemistry, race airplanes, and see the inside of computers—all for free. Six branches of the St. Louis County Library are celebrating the wonders of science every day of May 2019.
With the dozens of events slated for this month, it can be overwhelming to sift through the options and choose which to attend. Here are some especially interesting picks for Science Fest, perfect for every mood.
Discover fun things to do with the family
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If you’re ready to get your hands dirty: Galaxy Slime, May 14, 6–6:45 p.m. at Jamestown Bluffs Branch
This event, for those 10 and up (so no worries if you’re 55), promises visitors will make lots of “gooey things.” Slime is a substance that can be either a solid or a liquid– a.k.a. a non-Newtonian fluid. It’s made of common household items, including glue, laundry detergent, and glitter. This event is sure to offer attendees a great (if quite messy) souvenir. Register before spots fill.
If you’re looking for your next favorite book: Book Discussion: Morning Trailblazers, several sessions offered throughout the month, at Jamestown Bluffs Branch
In renowned science fiction author James Patterson’s The Store, one shop delivers every item a person ever requires, predicting needs and wishes that the person doesn’t even know they have. Two writers set out to explore the secrets of The Store, and become its main topics. Pick up a copy of this book at the service desk and prepare to discuss the world of science fiction.
If you can’t get enough of Breaking Bad: Kitchen Chemistry, May 18, 10–11 a.m. at Samuel C. Sachs Branch
Technically this event is for those ages six to ten and their families, not exactly Breaking Bad’s target demographic. But kids need supervision, right? Kitchen Chemistry promises to uncover the secrets of science through the art of cooking. What exactly this means remains a mystery, but there’s only one way to find out—register online here.
If you’re hungry: The Science of Ice Cream, May 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Natural Bridge Branch
Dessert’s on the library. This event is just after dinner time, and all supplies are provided. Adults and teens make their own ice creams, selecting and creating their own unique flavors. All the while, the science of ice cream making will be explained. This session will surely equip attendees with a skill set that could be very useful for future snacking. Register online.
If you’re looking for a different kind of petting zoo: Wonderful World of Animals, May 29, 10–11 a.m., at Natural Bridge Branch
It’s not every day that animals are in the library, but it is May 29. The St. Louis Zoo is partnering with St. Louis County Library to help teens and adults meet animals and learn about biodiversity through a “multi-sensory experience.” Hopefully, that doesn’t include smell. Register here.
If you’re still up in the air on what to attend: Science of Flight, May 28 or May 29, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., at Jamestown Bluffs branch or Paper Airplane Events, throughout the month, Samuel C. Sachs Branch.
This month, there are several age-specific paper airplane challenge events. Why not take it a step further? One particularly unique program is the Science of Flight, where those ages seven and up will enjoy snacks while building not only paper airplanes but also copters and balloon rockets. Register online.
For additional events, visit the month’s full schedule.
