Virtual Programs for Libraries: Cerritos Library
About Educational Resource
The Cerritos Library created five virtual programs using books in the library’s collection that explore NASA’s Universe of Learning topics. The information is supported with activities that are done easily at home with minimal instruction. The programs were filmed and posted on the Cerritos Library’s YouTube channel and presented on Cerritos TV3, the City of Cerritos’ cable television channel. The virtual programs were developed when the Cerritos Library was closed to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This Program Model was developed and authored by Cerritos Library, with minimal editorial input and review from NASA's Universe of Learning. NASA's Universe of Learning has contributed astrophysics content and subject matter expertise to support the creation of this material.
Other organizations may adapt these materials to meet the needs of their specific audiences. While this Program Model was designed to serve the local audience of the authoring institution, it is shared here as an example for broader use. Users should adjust it as needed and use all or some of the content, as appropriate, for their own needs.
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Goals and Recommendations
Goals
The goal of the program was to develop virtual programs about NASA’s Universe of Learning topics that were simplified for a public library audience. An array of enjoyable educational activities were produced.
Recommendations
The target audience for the Cerritos Library’s NASA’s Universe of Learning Virtual programs is children ages 8 to 12. The staff developed an objective of introducing participants to a range of topics related to astronomy. Resources used include books from the collection of the Cerritos Library as well as the library’s subscription science databases. Moreover, staff supported their research with resources provided by NASA’s Universe of Learning and NASA. Throughout the course of the programs, adult patrons also expressed interest about the subjects and provided positive feedback.