Science starts with curiosity. This year, Science Literacy Week runs October 4–11, bringing Canadians together to explore the science that surrounds us every day. The 2026 theme, Curiosity Unleashed, is all about asking questions, trying something new, tinkering, experimenting, and learning from the unexpected.
That sounds a lot like a trip to the library! From 3D printers and laser cutters to electronics and environmental monitoring tools you can borrow and take home, there are plenty of ways to turn a curious “I wonder…” into a hands-on experiment at the ORL.
1. I Wonder… How a 3D Printer Transforms an Idea?
Watch a digital design become a physical object, one layer at a time.
ORL Makerspaces offer several types of 3D printers that let you explore digital design, engineering, prototyping, and additive manufacturing. Design something from scratch or discover what this technology can do for your next creative project.
2. I Wonder… How a Laser Cuts with So Much Precision?
Explore the intersection of light, technology, design, and making with the Glowforge Laser Cutter.
The Glowforge uses a focused laser to cut and engrave materials, turning digital designs into precisely made physical objects. It’s a hands-on way to explore how computers, engineering, and creative design can work together.
3. I Wonder… How Heat Turns a Design into Something Permanent?
Explore the science of heat, pressure, and materials with the Sublimation Printer and Heat Press.
Sublimation uses heat to transform special inks into a gas that bonds with compatible materials. Create your own designs while discovering how temperature, pressure, and chemistry can turn a digital image into a permanent print.
4. I Wonder… How Sound Becomes a Recording?
Step inside an ORL Audio Recording Studio and experiment with the science and technology of sound.
Explore microphones, recording equipment, and audio software while creating music, podcasts, voice recordings, or other audio projects. Along the way, discover how sound can be captured, edited, mixed, and transformed into digital media.
5. I Wonder… What I Can Create with Digital Technology?
An ORL Creation Station gives you a place to find out.
These specialized computers provide access to creative software and technology for digital projects. Experiment with graphic design, photo and video editing, audio, animation, and more while building new digital skills.
6. I Wonder… What’s in the Air in My Home?
You can’t see fine particulate matter, but an Air Quality Monitor can help you investigate it.
Borrow one from the ORL’s Library of Things and experiment at home. Compare different rooms, watch what happens to PM2.5 levels while cooking, test the effect of an exhaust fan or air cleaner, or compare indoor conditions with outdoor air quality. Change one thing at a time, watch what happens, and see what the data tells you.
7. I Wonder… How Electricity Makes Things Work?
Snap a circuit together and find out! The Snap Circuits Junior Kit from the Library of Things offers a hands-on introduction to electronics, engineering, and circuitry. Build working circuits that power lights, sounds, and other projects, then experiment with different combinations to see how changing the circuit changes the result.
Stay Curious
Science literacy doesn’t begin with knowing all the answers. It begins with being curious enough to ask questions, test ideas, make mistakes, and keep exploring. This Science Literacy Week, bring your curiosity to the ORL. Visit an ORL Makerspace to experiment with creative technology, or browse the Library of Things for even more tools, kits, and devices you can explore at home.
You never know where an “I wonder…” might lead.
For more Science Literacy Week resources and activities, visit:
Science Literacy Week 2025 – Canada.ca
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