Across the state, NSW libraries are joining the national #scienceweek celebrations by hosting a diverse lineup of public events for community members of all ages. Scientists across the STEM disciplines will be speaking about all manner of topics, from ecology, ecosystems and marine science to cannabis, neuroscience and bioinformatics.
Inspiring Australia’s Talking Science series is designed to engage people who may not have participated in a National Science Week event before, taking science and scientists to where people go. Throughout August, there will be research talks, film screenings, coding sessions, SciArt competitions, panel discussions and hands on activities in more than 70 libraries across the state, involving over 120 scientific researchers.
“Local libraries are community hubs and provide welcoming spaces for people to connect with ideas and each other and learn new things,” said Jackie Randles, NSW Manager for Inspiring Australia.
“Libraries provide the perfect environment for science engagement and we are indebted to the dozens of professional program managers who are hosting these wonderful events for us in National Science Week.”
Inspiring Australia NSW also extends its thanks to the hundreds of scientists and STEM professionals involved.
Highlight events
- At the State Library of NSW, discover the science of hoarding: why does it develop and how can it be treated? Read more
- In Paddington, ecotoxologists Francesca Gissi and Amanda McDonald and environmental scientist Georgina Dawson will discuss their unusual careers and what it is like to work at the forefront of environment research and protection. Read more
- In Concord, you can learn how to keep your gut microbes fueled-up by eating the right types of food, and how your microbes return the favour by making you healthier. Read more
- In Blacktown, you can learn about nanomedicine and its application to cancer therapy. Read more
- In Camden, you can learn why it’s important for chickens we plan to eat to have a nutritionally balanced diet. Read more
- In Merrylands, discover everything you have wanted to know about blood and are too afraid to ask. Read more
- In Liverpool you can hear about the brain and strokes. Stay for an origami making craft session afterward. Read more
- In Kiama, you can learn all about 3D printing parts for bodies. Read more
- In Wagga Wagga, experience a range of hands-on science activities at the Riverina Science Festival including those demonstrated by Indigenous secondary students, along with Indigenous Elders and science outreach providers. Read more
- In Toronto, discover the world of coding in a fun and interactive session that will show you how to use visual codes to program miniature robots to dance or navigate a maze. Read more
- In Tweed Heads, you can enjoy free screenings of the Scinema International Film Festival. Read more
Visit the National Science Week website and browse this year’s library programs
Feature image courtesy of Wagga Wagga City Library. Inspiring Australia NSW works with libraries throughout the year, including through our Regional Science Hub initiative that provides regular STEM engagement experiences in regional communities.