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G2S Project Code: 2024-NV-95704
State: Nevada
Fiscal Year: 2024
Grantee
North Las Vegas Library District

Project Director
Director Name: Shelly Alexander
Director Phone: 702-633-1078
Director Email: alexanders@cityofnorthlasvegas.com
General Information
Title: 2025 Summer Learning Challenge
State Project Code: 24-23
Start Date: 10/01/2023
End Date: 09/30/2025
Abstract: The 2025 Summer Learning Challenge expanded learning opportunities for North Las Vegas residents by offering STEM, art, and wellness programs that reduced summer learning loss and increased awareness of library resources. LSTA funding supported hands-on STEM workshops, Engineering for Kids programs, Nevada Arts Council art classes, and Sound Healing sessions. Twelve Grab & Go STEAM kits for all ages encouraged continued exploration and connected participants to library databases. Outreach at schools, recreation centers, apartment complexes, and community events boosted visibility and participation. Evaluation methods included surveys, attendance, SLC sign-ups, and usage data. The project strengthened community learning, supported the District’s School Ready, College Ready, and Work Ready goals, and introduced new services that will inform future programming.
State Goal: Goal 4: Services and Resources
Budget Information
LSTA
MATCH-State
MATCH-Other
Total
$10,000.00
$1,280.45
$0.00
$11,280.45
Intent(s)
Improve users' general knowledge and skills.
Literacy
Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math (STEM)
Activities
Activity Details
Title: Grab and Go STEAM Kits
Narrative: North Las Vegas Library District created 12 themed Grab and Go STEAM kits distributed across four age groups, tied directly to library databases to reinforce learning beyond the kit contents. Kits included hands-on materials aligned with science, technology, engineering, art, and math concepts. The kits were available for patron checkout at library branches, generating 1,200 transactions over the grant period. By connecting physical kit content to digital library resources, the project extended summer learning access to patrons who could not attend scheduled programs.
Intent: Improve users' general knowledge and skills.

Activity: Instruction
Mode: Consultation/drop-in/referral
Format: In-person


Quantity
Total number of consultation/reference transactions: 1,200
Average number of consultation/reference transactions per month: 600


Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No


Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No


Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General


Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 0
Other: 0

Activity Details
Title: STEM Workshop
Narrative: North Las Vegas Library District offered hands-on STEM Lab workshops at all three branch locations, featuring projects including bouncy balls, lava lamps, kaleidoscopes, and salt dough that introduced basic chemistry and physics concepts through tactile, exploratory activities. Each branch also hosted an Engineering for Kids workshop focused on mechanical engineering, where participants aged 6–11 designed, built, and tested spinning tops to explore concepts of motion, balance, and energy. Programming was designed to provide accessible, high-quality STEM learning during the summer months, helping prevent learning loss while building participant confidence in science and engineering. Surveys showed strong engagement, with 58–66 participants agreeing they learned something new, felt more confident, and intended to apply what they learned.
Intent: Improve users' general knowledge and skills.

Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: In-person


Quantity
Session length (minutes): 60
Number of sessions in program: 5
Average number in attendance per session: 25
Number of times program administered: 3


Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No


Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No


Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General


Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 0
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 58
Agree: 12
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 61
Agree: 9
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 55
Agree: 15
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 4: I am more aware of resources and services provided by the library.
Strongly Agree: 66
Agree: 4
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 5: I am more likely to use other library resources and services.
Strongly Agree: 63
Agree: 7
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 0
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Activity Details
Title: Art & Social-Emotional Programs
Narrative: North Las Vegas Library District delivered art and social-emotional learning programming through two program types. Seven art classes for children, teens, and adults featured hands-on activities including watercolor techniques and mixed-media projects aligned with the "Color Our World" theme, taught by Nevada Arts Council teaching artists. Two Sound Healing sessions introduced adults to mindfulness and relaxation through guided meditation and therapeutic sound. Art program participants reported high satisfaction, noting new skills gained, inspiration to continue creating at home, and increased awareness of library resources. Sound Healing feedback was mixed, with many attendees appreciating the mindfulness techniques while others noted the format was not a good fit; this feedback will inform future wellness programming decisions.
Intent: Improve users' general knowledge and skills.

Activity: Instruction
Mode: Program
Format: In-person


Quantity
Session length (minutes): 60
Number of sessions in program: 4
Average number in attendance per session: 25
Number of times program administered: 2


Partner Information
Organization Type of Partner Organization(s):
Libraries: No
Historical Societies or Organizations: No
Museums: No
Archives: No
Cultural Heritage Organization Multi-type: No
Preschools: No
Schools: No
Adult Education: No
Human Service Organizations: No
Other: No


Legal Type of Partner Organization(s):
Federal Government: No
State Government: No
Local Government (excluding school districts): No
School District: No
Non-Profit: No
Private Sector: No
Tribe/Native Hawaiian Organization: No


Beneficiaries
Is the activity directed at the library workforce: No
For a targeted group or for the general population: General


Locale
Is the activity state-wide: No
Specific Locations: No
Library Types
Public Libraries: 0
Academic Libraries: 0
SLAA: 0
Consortia: 0
Special Libraries: 0
School Libraries: 0
Other: 0
Question 1: I learned something by participating in this library activity.
Strongly Agree: 45
Agree: 19
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 2
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 2: I feel more confident about what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 36
Agree: 25
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 3
Disagree: 2
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 3: I intend to apply what I just learned.
Strongly Agree: 29
Agree: 20
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 12
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 2
Non-Response: 3
Question 4: I am more aware of resources and services provided by the library.
Strongly Agree: 47
Agree: 17
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 2
Disagree: 0
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Question 5: I am more likely to use other library resources and services.
Strongly Agree: 42
Agree: 15
Neither Agree nor Disagree: 8
Disagree: 1
Strongly Disagree: 0
Non-Response: 0
Project Outcomes
Project Outcomes
List any important outcomes or findings not previously reported:
The 2025 Summer Learning Challenge delivered strong outcomes across all program areas. STEM surveys showed highly positive results, with 58–66 participants agreeing they learned something new, felt more confident, and intended to apply what they learned. Art program attendees reported increased creativity, skill development, and inspiration to continue creating at home. Sound Healing sessions received mixed feedback, with many appreciating the mindfulness techniques while others felt the format wasn’t a good fit. Overall engagement rose significantly, with SLC participation increasing from 1,558 to 2,487 (60%) and completions increasing by 30%. Across all activities, participants reported greater awareness of library resources, increased likelihood of using additional services, and meaningful gains in knowledge, skills, and enjoyment.
Please briefly describe the importance of these outcomes and findings for future program planning:
The findings show that the 2025 Summer Learning Challenge had a meaningful impact on learning, engagement, and community connection. A 60% increase in participation and a 30% rise in completions demonstrate that expanded programs and outreach successfully reached new families and encouraged sustained involvement. Strong STEM survey results confirm that participants gained new knowledge, felt more confident, and intended to apply what they learned—key indicators of reduced summer learning loss. Positive feedback from the art programs highlights the value of creative, culturally enriching experiences that support personal growth. Mixed responses to the Sound Healing sessions provide insight for improving future wellness offerings. Overall, the results show that the SLC strengthened skills, increased awareness of library resources, and reinforced the library’s role as a vital learning and enrichment center for North Las Vegas.
Explain one or two of the most significant lessons learned for others wanting to adopt any facets of this project:
Several key lessons emerged from the 2025 Summer Learning Challenge. First, offering a wide range of program types—STEM, art, wellness, and Grab & Go activities—proved essential in engaging diverse learning styles and age groups. The significant rise in overall participation showed that consistent outreach, clear marketing, and strong school partnerships are critical drivers of success. Survey results highlighted that hands-on STEM and art programs create the strongest impact, suggesting these should remain central. The mixed feedback on the Sound Healing sessions showed that wellness programs need clearer explanations. We also learned that tying activities to library databases increases awareness but requires staff reinforcement to ensure patrons make those connections. Overall, the project demonstrated the value of variety, strong community outreach, and intentional program design aligned with patron needs.
Do you anticipate continuing this project after the current reporting period ends:
Yes
Do you anticipate any change in level of effort in managing this project:
Yes
Explain:
The Summer Learning Challenge is an annual program, and we have chosen to continue it because the 2025 results demonstrated clear, meaningful impact. Participation increased by 60% and completions rose by 30%, showing strong community interest and sustained engagement. Surveys confirmed that participants gained new skills, increased confidence, and became more aware of library resources. The variety of STEM, art, wellness, and Grab & Go activities successfully reached new audiences and supported learning across all age groups. These outcomes show that the program effectively advances our strategic goals and provides significant value to the North Las Vegas community, making its continuation essential. The overall level of effort for staff will remain similar to previous years. Increasing the number of Grab & Go Kits will require additional preparation time; however, this added workload is manageable within current staffing levels. The introduction of library trading cards will not significantly impact staff effort, as the cards will be created and distributed using existing workflows. Outreach efforts will remain steady, with more targeted approaches to maintain impact without increasing workload. Overall, the project will continue to be sustainable within our current staffing capacity.
Do you anticipate changing the types of activities and objectives addressed by the project:
Yes
Explain:
The project’s scope will expand slightly in the coming year. We will increase the number of Grab & Go Kits available due to high community demand, broadening the reach of take-home learning activities. Additionally, we will introduce library trading cards as a new engagement tool to encourage deeper exploration of library resources and services. The number and type of in-person workshops will remain consistent, but these enhancements expand the project’s offerings and strengthen its ability to engage participants in multiple ways.
Was an evaluation conducted for this project:
No
Was a final written evaluation report produced:
No
Can the final written evaluation report be shared publicly on the IMLS website:
No
Was the evaluation conducted by project staff (either SLAA or local library) or by a third-party evaluator:
Third-Party
What data collection tools were used for any report outcomes and outputs:
Did you collect any media for the data:
What types of methods were used to analyze collected data:
Other:
How were participants (or items) selected:
What type of research design did you use to compare the value for any reported output or outcome:
Exemplary: No
Exemplary Narrative
Project Tags: