Gravette Public Library begins kids code clubs

GRAVETTE — The Gravette Public Library is offering weekly code clubs for children beginning the week of Jan. 20. In this informal educational setting, children will learn computer programming skills through a series of tutorials and projects. They’ll work toward building websites, video games, phone apps, animations and more, while learning how to become better problem solvers and critical thinkers.

“We’re excited to offer this program at the library,” said Karen Benson, library director. “Prenda Code Club is a fun and interactive program with projects that include Ozobot and Sphero commercial robots, Makey Makey and Raspberry Pi.”

The children’s clubs will meet weekly. An afterschool club will meet on Thursdays from 1 to 5 p.m. beginning Jan. 23, and a home school club will meet Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. beginning Jan. 24. The software will also be used in the Code Club Friday program for youth in grades 6-12 that meets after school from 3:30 to 5:30 on Fridays.

The library, which received a grant for the software and robots, is partnering with Prenda which provides software, training and support for libraries around the country to run engaging programming where kids can learn how to code. Learn more about Prenda Code Club at http://prenda.co.

For more information about these and other library programs, visit the library’s website at https://www.gravettelibrary.org or the library’s Facebook page. The Gravette Public Library, which is located at 119 Main St. S.E., is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.