Looking for fun and educational STEAM activities you can do at home?
You can find activities incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) created by our library staff.
STEAM Newsletter Archive
Read our STEAM Newsletters for a ton of library recommended STEAM activities, podcasts, programs and more for all ages!
Activity of the Month Archive
Get printable instructions for one very special ORL original Activity of the Month. Each month we’ll take you on a STEAM adventure. There’s something here for everyone!
Events
STEM Summer Fun for Kids: Simple Science Projects Using Everyday Items
Looking to spark a summer discovery? STEM learning for kids doesn’t need a lab—just a kitchen table, a few basic supplies, and a sense of adventure! These three simple science experiments are great for young explorers, and they pair perfectly with books available right here at the Okanagan Regional Library. Dancing Raisins Fill a clear glass with carbonated water and drop in a few raisins. Watch them sink, then rise…
Behind the Curtain: A Q&A with Magician Leif David
…we knew we had to chat with Leif when we saw the excitement and wide-eyed wonder his magic shows inspire in children of all ages… This summer, as part of the ORL’s Summer Reading Club Colour Your Summer, branches across the region are lighting up with laughter and joy thanks to magician Leif David. His high-energy, interactive show is delighting audiences of all ages. We caught up with Leif to…
Naramata Branch Temporary Closure
The Okanagan Regional Library’s Naramata Branch will be closed from August 9 to 25, 2025, to allow for interior upgrades. The branch will reopen on Tuesday, August 26. The project includes improvements to shelving, updated service desks, interior painting, and layout adjustments to better serve the community. During this time, book drop bins will be closed, and Naramata will be unavailable as a Holds pickup location. Please consider redirecting your…
The New NoveList: A Fresh Look at Finding Your Next Great Read
NoveList is a powerful readers’ advisory tool that helps you discover books based on your interests, read-alikes, or favourite story elements. NoveList makes it easy to explore and connect with titles you’ll love. The upgraded NoveList platform, part of the ORL’s Digital Collection, is built for everyone who loves a good story. Whether you’re a casual browser, a book club regular, or a readers’ advisory pro, the refreshed experience is…
Disability Pride Month: Recommended Reads
Read, Reflect, and Celebrate Disability Pride Month This July, the ORL invites you to explore stories that celebrate the richness of human experience. In honour of Disability Pride Month, we’ve curated a list of compelling books that challenge stereotypes, inspire empathy, and highlight the power of visibility and voice. Whether you’re looking for children’s stories, memoirs, or cultural critique, there’s something here for every reader. Here are just a few…
Your Library Is More Popular Than Ever: Read the ORL’s 2024 Annual Report
The ORL’s 2024 Annual Report is full of stats, highlights, and achievements—but at its core, it’s about the incredible people who visit our libraries, browse our collections, and attend our programs. It’s about a child’s first Story Time visit. The entrepreneur who practiced her pitch with a Business Owners Group. The newcomer who found a favourite book in their first language. The senior who learned to digitize cherished family photos.…
Skip the Summer Slide with SRC Programs, Prizes, and Online Fun!
Who says summer learning has to happen indoors? With the ORL’s Summer Reading Club, there’s something exciting around every corner—whether you’re at home, on the road, or nestled into a hammock at your favourite campground. This July, the ORL is hosting a fantastic lineup of online programs you can access from anywhere with Wi-Fi: 🎨 Lauren Achtem – Tuesday, July 8 3:00 – 3:45 p.m. Create colourful habitats for critters…
ORL Reads – Indigenous History Month
New and noteworthy titles by Indigenous authors to honour the past, reflect on the present, and imagine the future. Bones of a Giant by Brian Thomas Isaac In this poignant novel set in 1968 on the Okanagan Indian Reserve, two brothers navigate grief, racism, and the complex legacy of their family. Brian Thomas Isaac delivers a powerful coming-of-age story rooted in resilience and tenderness. From Sweetgrass Bridge by Anthony Bidulka…
National Indigenous History Month: Celebrating Indigenous Diversity
June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada—a time to honour the rich cultures, enduring traditions, and diverse histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Indigenous communities have lived on and cared for this land since time immemorial. Their knowledge systems, languages, and cultural expressions continue to shape Canada’s present and future in meaningful ways. This month is an opportunity for Canadians to learn more, reflect deeply, and…
STEM Summer Fun for Kids: Simple Science Projects Using Everyday Items
Looking to spark a summer discovery? STEM learning for kids doesn’t need a lab—just a kitchen table, a few basic supplies, and a sense of adventure! These three simple science…
Behind the Curtain: A Q&A with Magician Leif David
…we knew we had to chat with Leif when we saw the excitement and wide-eyed wonder his magic shows inspire in children of all ages… This summer, as part of…
Naramata Branch Temporary Closure
The Okanagan Regional Library’s Naramata Branch will be closed from August 9 to 25, 2025, to allow for interior upgrades. The branch will reopen on Tuesday, August 26. The project…
The New NoveList: A Fresh Look at Finding Your Next Great Read
NoveList is a powerful readers’ advisory tool that helps you discover books based on your interests, read-alikes, or favourite story elements. NoveList makes it easy to explore and connect with…
Disability Pride Month: Recommended Reads
Read, Reflect, and Celebrate Disability Pride Month This July, the ORL invites you to explore stories that celebrate the richness of human experience. In honour of Disability Pride Month, we’ve…
Visit Our Makerspaces
Want more hands-on STEAM experience?
At ORL Makerspaces, you will find equipment and tools for projects, digital media creation, and exploring and learning new technology.
Use Creation Stations for digital design or animation; cut hundreds of different materials for custom DIY projects with our Cricut Makers; and you can even print three-dimensional objects using our 3D printers.
To see all the equipment offered, how to book a maker station, and to find your nearest library location with a Makerspace, check out ORL Makerspaces.
Details
Under 14? Your parent or guardian who is an ORL Maker must come with you to use the equipment.
Are you between 14 and 18? You must have your legal guardian sign your Makerspace Waiver & Guidelines [PDF] agreement.