Library now has LEGO Mindstorms kits

The Cathlamet Public Library has just received the popular LEGO Mindstorms kit http://www.lego.com/en-us/mindstorms for youth patrons to use for a limited time.

The Mindstorms kits are designed to teach robotics to middle school students and above. Each kit will come with the following equipment:

• LEGO Mindstorms Education EV3 Core Set

• Laptops with licenses Lego EV3 software

• Projector

• IR Sensor and IR Beacon/Remote

• Extra Ultrasonic Sensor

• Assorted extra LEGO accessories and parts.

The kit will stay at the library until Saturday, January 26. During that time, the library will offer the opportunity for youth patrons to construct the robots and learn what is necessary to make them move and perform.

The Mindstorms kit is designed to give kids experience learning to code to get the robots to do what the users want.

“Come to see what you can train a robot to do!” encourages Librarian Carol Blix.

The Washington State Library is providing the Mindstorms kits to libraries that request them, said Carolyn Petersen, the State Library’s assistant program manager for library development.

“Since these are expensive kits, they will give kids who might never have a chance to play with these robots otherwise a chance to play with them at their local libraries,” Petersen said.