Jun 4, 2016 2 min read

WAYNESBURG – Eva K. Bowlby Public Library is offering Greene County students a “hands-on” experience to learn how to program and operate a robot.

The Waynesburg library is hosting a six-week class in July and August that will teach technology, computer science and coding through a Finch robot, made by the Pittsburgh-based company Birdbrain Technologies.

“They’re called Finch robots because it’s supposed to look like a little bird,” library director Kathy McClure said.

The small robot, which can fit in the palm of one’s hand, supports more than 12 programming languages. It was created to provide computer science learning opportunities for all ages.

The classes will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. July 11, 18 and 25 and Aug. 1, 8 and 15 at the library. During the classes, each student will use an online programming service to program the Finch to move, turn navigate a maze, change colors, make sounds and draw.

“They will have access to a computer or laptop and will be taught how to program their own robot and give commands to it,” said Kerry McClure, director of children’s services for the library. “It’s really hands-on and that’s why space is limited, because we want each child to have their own computer and robot to use.”

Kathy said she applied last year for a grant with Birdbrain Technologies to get the robots for sessions this summer.

“The company really likes to target underserved and rural areas that may not have access to the tools needed for a robotics course like this,” she said.

The library will get to keep one of the robots and will return the other 10 once the classes are over.

“I think the kids will really have a fun time with it,” she said. “I like to make sure that everything we do here at the library bridges what the kids are learning in school.”

To register for the robotics program, call the library at 724-627-9776.