Welcome to Shortgrass Library System

Programming Kits


Need help with library programming?  Need ideas and supplies?  Shortgrass has created a variety of programming kits that are available to member libraries for borrowing. To request a kit, simply email programmingkits@shortgrass.ca. To ensure your requested kit is available when you need it, be sure to place your hold well in advance of your programming date and it will be sent to you with the regular deliveries.

If you wish to enquire about a kit that is not currently available please contact the Client Services Librarian.

Click here to view the programming kits booking schedule.

Click here to access all Programming Kit Guides.

Click here to learn more about how programming kits work.


** NEW ** Tic Tac Toss

Tic Tac Toss is an oversized version of noughts and crosses- with the twist that instead of carefully placing your X or O, you need to toss it from a few feet away!


** NEW ** Mini Golf

This is a GLOW IN THE DARK mini golf game- yup, you read that right! The golf balls included in this kit light up, and the kit includes blacklights, which "light up" the reflective obstacles.

Our Mini Golf kit has supplies for up to eight players, and for up to five holes- plus suggestions for how you can make some additional courses!

Kit contains:

  • Putters and light-up balls for eight players (putters are a variety of heights and weights)
  • 5 tee mats, 5 holes with flags, 5 obstacles
  • A 72" x 90" putting green, with blacklights
  • Score cards

View this kit in action.


** NEW ** Giant Inflatable Bowling

You can set up these giant inflatable pins almost anywhere for a round of giant bowling! Each pin features a cardboard weighted bottom for additional stability.

Kit contains:

  • Six inflatable pins, measuring 29" tall
  • One inflatable ball, measuring 20" in diameter
  • Electric pump (requires outlet)

View this kit in action:


** NEW ** Giant Inflatable Ring Toss

Improve hand-eye coordination and develop key social-emotional skills with this super-sized multi-player ring toss game! How many points can you score?

Kit contains:

  • Inflatable ring toss game, measuring 60”L x 39”W x 7”H
  • Eight inflatable rings (four red, four blue)
  • Electric pump (requires outlet)

View this kit in action:


** NEW ** Dress Up!

Host a dress up storytime at your library! This kit contains dozens of costume pieces that you can use for a dress up program, along with a selection of dress up-themed picture books. A selection of facepainting tools are also included.

Note: Please only use the facepainting supplies if you can follow all instructions for safe use.


** NEW ** Escape Game - Wooka Booka Island

Explore four animal kingdoms to uncover a long-lost treasure in this fun new escape game for kids aged 5-8!

This kit contains everything you need to set up an escape game in your library and is suitable for both larger and smaller spaces. It is very easy to set up and run, but we recommend borrowing it at least a week in advance of when you wish to hold your program in order to familiarize yourself with the contents and game.

Recommended for ages 5-8, best for small groups of 3-4. Best for young families; parents help may be needed!


** NEW ** Escape Game - Saving the Beauty of Winter

A mad scientist wants to stop winter from coming! Find his secret lab and break into a top-secret room to stop his evil plan!

This kit contains everything you need to set up an escape game in your library and is suitable for both larger and smaller spaces. It is very easy to set up and run, but we recommend borrowing it at least a week in advance of when you wish to hold your program in order to familiarize yourself with the contents and game.

Recommended for ages 9-13, best for small groups of 2-5.


** NEW ** Escape Game - Houdini's Secret Room

When exploring Houdini's museum, you become trapped in a secret room. Solve the clues before the time runs out to escape the secret room!

This kit contains everything you need to set up an escape game in your library and is suitable for both larger and smaller spaces. It is very easy to set up and run, but we recommend borrowing it at least a week in advance of when you wish to hold your program in order to familiarize yourself with the contents and game.

Recommended for ages 9-13, best for small groups of 2-5.


** NEW ** Trivia Night

This kit contains everything you need to host a trivia night at your library! With 250 questions divided into 25 rounds, you can use this program to run a successful trivia program or fundraiser.

This kit is designed for adult and teen participants.


Escape Room - Percy Jackson: Capture the Flag!

It's Capture the Flag night at Camp Half-Blood, and you are determined that this time, your team will win. The only problem: your opponents have done too good a job at protecting the flag, with a series of puzzles blocking your way!

This kit contains everything you need to set up an escape room in your library and is suitable for both larger and smaller spaces. It is very easy to set up and run, but we recommend borrowing it at least a week in advance of when you wish to hold your program in order to familiarize yourself with the contents and game.

Recommended for ages 10+, best for small groups of 4-5.


** NEW ** Green Screen

Take pictures of yourself flying through space, riding a dinosaur, or exploring a jungle! The Green Screen kit includes a collapsible greenscreen, an iPad and tripod, and greenscreen props. It's a great addition to a themed storytime, outreach event, or end-of-summer party!

Adult supervision required.


Tornado Tubes

Work your STEAM skills with these tornados-in-a-bottle! Follow this link to see them in action.

Kit contains:

  • 25 tornado tubes
  • 10 pairs of plastic bottles
  • Food colouring
Nerf Games

Battle it out with the Nerf Games programming kit! This kit contains a range of Nerf guns, plenty of darts, eye protection, and a ton of ideas for games and activities. Contact the Client Services Librarian for access to the kit booklet prior to your program.

Kit contains:

  • Nerf guns x15
  • Nerf darts
  • Safety goggles
  • Electronic & laminated targets
  • Flag football belts

Giant Four Across

The latest in our oversized board games collection! Play life-sized four across at your next library event with this equipment. Borrow to keep children entertained during a book sale, or book it alongside other oversized board games for a Giant Board Game program!

Kit contains:

  • Giant Four Across game board
  • 21 green game pieces
  • 21 yellow game pieces



Book Bingo

The BINGO game you know and love, with a library twist. Participants will have to use their listening skills and have lightning-fast reflexes, as they listen for the titles on their BINGO cards and race to be the first to shout BINGO!

This Book Bingo kit is a fun way to introduce children to new books, while having fun and winning prizes! Participants can play while maintaining physical distance- though some smaller ones may need to bring a grown up with them to help them out, as this program is intended for children of reading age.

This program runs just like a bingo game- every participant gets a bingo card and bingo chips, and covers their square as its contents are called. But there’s a twist: every item on the bingo card is a Canadian children’s book!

Kit contains:

  • Laminated BINGO cards (x30)
  • BINGO calling cards (x100)
  • Bingo chips (x30 sets of 25)
  • Prizes (enough for approximately ten winners per library)
  • Booklist

Recommended for ages 7+ (children who cannot yet read will need a parent’s help).


Outdoor and "Giant" Games

Giant Jenga

  • Regular
  • Colourful

Yardzee (giant Yahtzee)

  • Five giant wooden dice
  • Scorecards

Cannonball Drop

  • Tower (4 parts; 122cm assembled)
  • 24 straws
  • 30 balls
  • Instruction sheet

Giant Snakes and Ladders

  • Giant Play Board
  • Giant Inflatable Die
  • 8 Ground Pegs

Harry Potter Escape Room: Escape the Professor's Office

There's something very mysterious about your new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, so you and your friends decide to break into her office and find out what she's hiding. Only problem: she's booby-trapped the office, and now you're locked inside! Can you break out before she returns?

This kit contains everything you need to set up an escape room in your library and is suitable for both larger and smaller spaces. It is very easy to set up and run, but we recommend borrowing it at least a week in advance of when you wish to hold your program in order to familiarize yourself with the contents and game.

Recommended for ages 8+.


Murder Mystery Party Kits
  • Mystery in the Library: During an author talk at the local library, a rare historical volume goes missing! Patrons must try to solve the theft before the thief can strike again!
    Recommended for ages 12+.
  • Murder at the Deadwood Saloon: A high-stakes poker tournament takes a deadly turn when one of the participants is found murdered. Can party-goers solve the crime before the killer strikes again?
    Recommended for ages 14+.
  • The Wizard of Oz Murder: Things were just starting to settle down in the Land of Oz when the East Witch turned up dead -- and now it's up to your favourite characters to find out whodunit. Join Dorothy, the Tin Man, Glinda, and more in trying to catch the killer.
    Recommended for ages 12+.

Karaoke

Kit contains:

  • Karaoke Machine
  • Two Microphones
  • Super Hits Volume 21 CD-G
  • Greatest Ever CD-G
  • 100 Party Hits CD-G
  • Track List for CDs

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Board Game Kit

  • Party Games
    • Taboo
    • Apples to Apples
    • Scattergories
    • Pictionary
    • Snake Oil
    • Anomia
    • Trivial Pursuit: Party
  • Card Games
    • Uno
    • Old Maid
    • Cribbage
    • Animal Rummy
    • Go Fish
  • Strategy Games
    • Clue
    • Carcassonne
    • Settlers of Catan
  • Other:
    • Scrabble
    • Dominoes
    • Playing card decks, x2
    • Dice

** NEW ** Jewelry Making for Kids

This contains supplies for making jewelry and keychains. This includes pony beads, cords, and Rainbow Loom supplies. Kids can have fun making their own bracelets, necklaces, and keychains!

Please note that Rainbow Loom supplies are intended for children aged 7+.


** NEW ** Jewelry Making for Adults

Providing beads in dozens of sizes and hundreds of colours, this kit has everything that you need for teens & adults to create amazing jewelry. Included in this kit are thousands of beads, a wide assortment of jewelry wire and cord, a variety of beading needles and hooks, and even a bead spinner!


** NEW ** Quilling Art

Quilling is an ancient art form that involves rolling thin strips of paper into interesting shapes, and placing them together to create larger artworks. Search ‘Quilling Art’ on Google to see some of the beautiful designs possible!

Suitable for older children, teens, and adults. Supplies include enough tools for ten participants.



Scratch Art

Welcome to Scratch Art! This kit is a fun way to stretch your creative muscles. Scratch art combines careful instructions (preparing your ‘canvas’) with open-ended creativity (scratch out any design you can think of!). It is fun for all ages- and just a little messy!

Kit contains: 

  • Oil pastels
  • Black acrylic paint & dish soap
  • Scratching sticks
  • Paint brushes
  • Painting-quality paper

Duct Tape Crafts

Ever wanted to make a wallet out of duct tape? How about duct tape roses, bow ties, or Christmas ornaments? Our duct tape crafts kit has everything you need to make all of these cool projects and more!

Kit contains: 

  • 25 rolls of Decorative Duct Tape
  • Sharpies and Markers
  • 2 Rulers
  • 3 Pairs of Scissors
  • Print-Outs of Instructions for Crafts
  • Sample Duct Tape Crafts

Recommended for ages 8+,


Origami

This kit includes materials for both beginners and pros!

For the beginners: Everything you need to get started with origami! Kit contains origami paper of various sizes and colours as well as basic project ideas and easy-to-follow books!

Plus, check out this YouTube playlist of fun, easy folding ideas to get you motivated!

For the experts: Easy origami not enough of a challenge? This kit contains everything you need to fold some seriously cool projects, including pretty patterned paper and instructions for folding more complicated projects.



Perler Bead Art 

Great for kids and teens! Perler bead art is made by arranging plastic beads into patterns and shapes, then using a hot clothes iron to melt them together (please have an adult use the iron). Shapes take on a pixelly/8-bit appearance, making this a fun project for participants into video games and other kinds of "nerd" pop culture.

Kit contains:

  • Beads
  • Pegboards
  • Iron
  • Pattern ideas

Recommended for ages 6+.


Fibre Arts

Have you heard? Knitting is cool again! Lead a learn to knit or learn to crochet program at your library with this kit, or just set out supplies in a sunny spot and watch people cozy up with yarn. Who knows -- maybe someone will make you a scarf!

The Fibre Arts kit now includes supplies for additional projects. Your patrons can now make plastic canvas cross stitch bookmarks; friendship bracelets; and mini stuffies!

Kit contains:
  • Crochet hooks, various sizes
  • Knitting needles, various sizes
  • Plastic and self-threading needles
  • Yarn, various weights and colours
  • Embroidery threads
  • Plastic cross stitch canvas
  • Felt and stuffing
  • Teach Yourself VISUALLY: Crochet how-to book
  • Teach Yourself VISUALLY: Knitting how-to book
  • Plastic Canvas Cross Stitch Fridge Magnets book
  • 100 Mini Cross Stitch Designs book
  • Craft guides for cross stitch bookmarks, donut stuffies, and friendship bracelets.


Zentangle-Inspired Art

The Zentangle Method (created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas) is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images using structured patterns. If you have patrons who love the meditative, crafty nature of our origami or fibre arts kits, they'll love learning how to tangle with our Zentange-inspired kit! Suitable for all ages but an especially great option for adult or seniors programming. Learn more about the Zentangle Method here.

Kit contains:
  • Artists' pens in various sizes and colours
  • Artists' tiles, for creating your art
  • Zentangle pattern books for both adults and kids


Kindness Rocks

Ever been out for a walk and come across a beautifully painted rock with a picture or affirmation on it? You found a Kindness Rock! Meant to bring a little joy and happiness to the world around us, these little rocks are a fun, easy way to brighten anyone's day. With our Kindness Rocks kit, you can share a little of your own joy with the world.

Kit contains:
  • Acrylic paints
  • Paint pens
  • Spray sealant
  • Paintbrushes
  • Art tutorials and a list of suggested positive affirmations, in case you need a little inspiration
  • ~40 rocks suitable for painting

Looking for new nursery rhymes for Storytime? Try these great resources:


Drive-In Radio Storytime

Remember drive-in movies- sitting in the comfort of your air-conditioned car while watching a film? Well, with this kit, you can recreate that experience- but with storytimes!

This kit includes radio transmitting equipment with detailed set-up instructions. It also includes storytime equipment, like two Big Books, and bells for kids to take home with them! The kit also includes safety equipment, including a fluorescent safety vest, traffic cones, and caution tape.

A minimum of two staff are required to run this program. 3-4 is ideal.

Please note that this equipment can also be used for non-storytime programming as well- bingo nights, radio plays, whatever you can think of!

Contact programmingkits@shortgrass.ca to learn more about how it works and to make a booking.


Storytime Kits

Click the image to see storytime guidelines, craft ideas, and more!

Cat Storytime Kit

Books
  •  They All Saw a Cat, by Brendan Wenzel
  •  Kitten’s First Full Moon, by Kevin Henkes
  •  Have You Seen My Cat?, by Eric Carle
  •  Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes, by James Dean & Eric Litwin
  •  This Book Just Stole My Cat!, by Richard Byrne

Cat puppet, cat-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a cat craft are included.

Dinosaur Storytime Kit

Books
  •  If You Happen to Have a Dinosaur, by Linda Bailey & Colin Jack
  •  How to Be a T-Rex, by Ryan North
  •  Tea Rex, by Molly Idle
  •  Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs, by Mo Willems
  •  Lulu and the Brontosaurus, by Judith Viorst
  •  Dinosaur Dance, by Sandra Boyton

Dinosaur puppets, dinosaur-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a dinosaur craft are included.

Farm Animal Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Punk Farm, by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
  •  No Sleep for the Sheep! by Karen Beaumont
  •  Clip Clop, by Nicola Smee
  •  Cock-a-Doodle Quack! Quack! by Ivor Baddiel
  •  Moo Baa La-La-La, by Sandra Boynton

Farm animal puppets, farm animal-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a farm animal craft are included.


French Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Fancy Nancy: Bonjour Butterfly, by Jane O’Connor
  •  Escargot, by Dashka Slater
  •  All About Paris, by Kevin & Haily Meyers
  •  The Fabulous Lost & Found and the Little French Mouse, by Mark Pallis
  •  What Can I Do? by Olga Ritchie
  •  Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown
  •  Bonsoir Lune, by Margaret Wise Brown
  •  French-English Picture Dictionary, by Catherine Bruzzone & Louise Millar

Bilingual nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a craft, are included.

Music Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Play This Book, by Jessica Young and Daniel Wiseman
  •  This Magical Musical Night, by Rhonda Gowler Greene
  •  Everybunny Dance, by Ellie Sandall
  •  The Rapping Princess, by Hannah Lee
  •  Clarinet and Trumpet, by Melanie Ellsworth

Music-themed nursery rhymes, early literacy activities, and a music craft are included.

Pirate Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Pirates Love Underpants, by Claire Freedman
  •  How I Became a Pirate, by Melinda Long
  •  The Pirates Next Door, by Jonny Duddle
  •  Pirate Princess, by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
  •  Sammy the Seasick Pirate, by Janelle Springer-Willms

Parrot puppet, pirate-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a pirate-themed craft are included.


Space Storytime Kit

Books
  •  A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars, by Seth Fishman
  •  The Darkest Dark, by Chris Hadfield
  •  Life On Mars, by Jon Agee
  •  Margaret and the Moon, by Dean Robbins
  •  There’s an Alien in Your Book, by Tom Fletch

Space-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a space craft are included.

Unicorn Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Thelma the Unicorn, by Aaron Blabey
  •  Not Quite Narwhal, by Jessie Sima
  •  I Am a Unicorn! by Mallory Loehr
  •  Unicorn Day, by Diana Murray
  •  Pugicorn, by Matilda Rose

Unicorn puppet, unicorn-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a unicorn-themed craft are included.


Wild Animal Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Grumpy Monkey, by Suzanne Lang
  •  Walking Through the Jungle, by Debbie Harter
  •  Everyone Counts, by Judy Sierra
  •  Open Very Carefully! by Nick Bromley
  •  Roar! by Katerina Kerouli

Wild animal puppets, wild animal-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a wild animal craft are included.

Winter Storytime Kit

Books
  •  Owl Moon, by Jane Yolen
  •  Over and Under the Snow, by Kate Messner
  •  The Wish Tree, by Kyo Maclear
  •  Sleep Tight Farm, by Eugenie Doyle
  •  Penguins Love Colours, by Sarah Aspinall

Penguin puppet, winter-themed nursery rhymes and early literacy activities, and a winter craft are included.


More Storytimes:

  • Hockey
    • There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Puck
    • Lucy Tries Hockey
    • My Granny Loves Hockey
    • The Hockey Song
  • Indigenous Folktales
    • Cloudwalker
    • Grandmother Ptarmigan
    • A Promise is a Promise
    • Mwȃkwa Talks to the Loon
    • Kaqtukowa’tekete’w: The Thundermaker
  • Sloth Puppet & Books
    • Sloth puppet
    • A Little Book of Sloth
    • Sparky!
    • Slowly, Slowly, Slowly, Said the Sloth

STEAM Storytime Kits

STEAM Storytime Kit #4: Let's Get Magnetic

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. The Let's Get Magnetic kit contains some picture and informational books featuring magnets, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and supplies to help you complete them. NOTE: Not all craft supplies are included.

Books:
  • Magnet Max by Monica Lozano Hughes
  • A Look at Magnets by Barbara Alpert
  • Electro-Magnetism for Babies by Chris Ferrie
  • Marsha is Magnetic by Beth Ferry

Included supplies:

  • Magnetic wands
  • Bar magnets
  • Play magnets and alphabet magnets

STEAM Storytime Kit #5: Big & Small

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. The Big & Small kit introduces children to the concept of measurement, exploring things that are varying sizes, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and some basic supplies to help you complete them. NOTE: not all craft supplies are included.

Books:
  • Up to My Knees by Grace Lin
  • Tiny Trex and the Impossible Hug by Jonathon Stutzman
  • How Tall? Wacky Ways to Compare Height by Mark Weakland
  • Big Bug by Henry Cole

Included supplies:

  • Measuring tapes
  • Items for relative measurement (toys, animal cut-outs, etc.)
  • Blocks

STEAM Storytime Kit #6: Splash!

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. This “Splash!” kit is full of water-based activities and books. Included are three books, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and some basic supplies to help you include them. NOTE: not all craft supplies are included.

Books:
  • Singing in the Rain by Henry Holt & Tim Hopgood
  • All the Water in the World by George Ella Lyon and Katherine Tillotson
  • Boats Will Float by Andria Warmflash Rosenbaum
  • Water by Frank Asch
  • Get Out of My Bath by Britta Teckentrup

Included supplies:

  • Clear bin
  • Various supplies

STEAM Storytime Kit #1: Fairytale STEAM

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. The fairytale kit contains three fun takes on traditional fairytales, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and some basic supplies to help you complete them. NOTE: Not all craft supplies are included.

Books:

  • Goldilocks and Just One Bear
  • The True Story of the Three Little Pigs
  • Rapunzel

STEAM Storytime Kit #2: Inventing

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. The Inventing kit contains three books about creative kids sure to inspire participants to want to make something amazing of their own, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and some basic supplies to help you complete them. NOTE: not all craft supplies are included.

Books:
  • Ada's Ideas
  • The Most Magnificent Thing
  • Rosie Revere, Engineer

STEAM Storytime Kit #3: Things That Go Vrooom!

Our STEAM Storytime kits are designed to help introduce kids to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) concepts through stories and fun activities. This “Things That Go Vrooom!” kit is sure to get kids’ revved up about science and things that go fast. Included are three books, a binder full of easy activity ideas, and some basic supplies to help you include them. NOTE: not all craft supplies are included.

Books:
  • If I Built a Car
  • Going Places
  • Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus

Literacy Activity Kits

Click the image for more information.


Stuffy Sleepover

The Stuffy Sleepover kit is a fun way to get kids reading. Children bring their stuffies to the library, drop them off for a sleepover, and pick them up the next day, ready to find out what mischief they got up to overnight! Children will love seeing their toys enjoy the library after hours.

Why is this program a great idea? Because seeing their stuffies reading and enjoying the library, can help encourage kids to read! This CNN article from 2017 tracks the effectiveness of stuffy sleepovers in encouraging children to love picture books. Children who have participated in these sleepovers will often read to their stuffed animals!

This program can be paired with a Sleepover Storytime- invite kids to come to the library for a pajama storytime and read a bedtime book, before leaving their stuffed animals for the night and heading home. Or, it can be a standalone event, with kids dropping their stuffies off and picking them up!

To make things very COVID-safe, we are currently recommending that you do not invite children to bring their own stuffies to the library. While surface transmission risk is thought to be minimal, we don’t recommend handling these sort of soft materials- especially stuffies, which children often cuddle and hold close to their faces! Instead, this kit includes the materials to make a simple, moveable teddy bear craft. Children can complete the craft at home or during a library storytime, and then leave their craft teddy bear for a sleepover instead!

Kit contents include:
  • Mini popup tent
  • Soft blanket
  • Flashlight
  • Mini table hockey game
  • Mini bowling game
  • Tea party / midnight snack set
  • Mini flutes for toy music time
  • Materials for Teddy Bear Craft

Block Collections

Read Alberta Books Kit

Updated in 2019. This kit contains 35 great books written by Alberta authors for readers of all ages and interests. With fiction, non-fiction, YA, and picture books, this collection highlights the best of Alberta’s publishing industry from the last year. Kit can be borrowed for one month, and books can be loaned out to patrons for a regular loan period of 21 days. No renewals are allowed on Read Alberta Books materials.

Indigenous Picture Books

12 Indigenous picture books. Kit can be borrowed for one month, and books can be loaned out to patrons for a regular loan period of 21 days. No renewals are allowed on Read Alberta Books materials.



Learner’s License Prep

Do you have teen patrons who need a little extra help ahead of taking their learner's license exam? This is a great kit to borrow during spring break or early summer, when many teens are getting ready to take their exam.

Kit contains:
  • 106 Study Cards
  • 13 Traffic Signs
  • 16 Traffic Tiles
  • 15 Vehicle Tiles
  • 5 Traffic Sign Tiles
  • 1 Lanyard with USB Drive
  • 1 Measuring Tape
  • 1 Expo Marker


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Book Binding Kit

This kit has everything you need to bind a custom-created book, or repair a damaged one.

Kit contains:
  • Bind-o-Matic Flex document binding machine
  • Bind-o-Matic Flex document cooling stand
  • Glue binding strips, various sizes
  • Bind-Art Adhesive
  • Transparent corners, clear wings
  • Sewing awl kit
  • Gauze
  • Wax paper
  • Tape, scissors, x-acto knife, paintbrushes
  • Apron
  • Brodart's Guide to Book Care and Repair

To find tutorials on how to use the bookbinding kit, search "Bindomatic Flex" on YouTube.

Plan of Service

This kit is designed to help you facilitate engagement sessions and planning for your Plan of Service. It is available for longer borrowing periods of 3+ weeks.

Kit contains:

  • Sticky notes (assorted)
  • Dry erase markers
  • Personal mini whiteboards
  • Personal whiteboard erasers
  • Flip chart paper
  • Flip chart markers
  • Masking tape
  • Coloured dot stickers
  • Notepads
  • Pens
  • Name tag stickers
  • Binder containing the following:
    • Service Planning for Alberta Libraries: Guide and Workbook
    • Libraries Act
    • Libraries Regulation
    • Best Practices for Public Libraries in Alberta
    • Planning for the Future: Strategic Planning for Results Handout from PLSB Workshop
    • Plan of Service Overview & 18 Service Responses (from Library Board Basics Handbook - multiple copies, grey)
    • Worksheet: Picking Library Services that Respond to Community Needs (multiple copies, blue)
    • Workform C: Community Vision (multiple copies, purple)
    • Workform E: Library SWOT Analysis (multiple copies, red)
    • Workform G: Goal Worksheet (multiple copies, gold)
    • Workform H: Objective Worksheet (multiple copies, yellow)

Physical Literacy Kits

Remember the excitement you felt when your teacher brought out the colourful parachute in gym class? Or how much fun it was to play jump rope games with your friends? Our two physical literacy kits let you share that joy through library programming!

Hula Hoops

This kit contains ten hula hoops- a perfect way to get kids moving!
Hula hoops also work great as a physical distancing tool, to help kids remember to keep their distance from each other during programs.

Run, Jump, Throw, Skip Kit

Contains balls, frisbees, pylons, and jump ropes so you can play a variety of yard and playground games at your library! Contains an activity guidebook and a booklet of classic jump rope rhymes to get you started with your programming activities. Great for summer reading clubs!

Parachute Kit

Contains a play parachute, rubber chicken, bean bags, and a booklet full of games and activities to help guide your programming activities (if the kids don't decide for you what games they want to play!)

Winter Physical Literacy Kit

Outdoor programs don't have to be limited to the summer months. This winter version of our popular physical literacy kits encourages kids to get outside and build snowmen, construct igloos, and even go sledding. Comes with several snow brick shapers, snow paints/sprayers (to write in/colour the snow!), a snowman kit, and a guide to outdoor winter games and activities you can use to round out your program.


Sidewalk Obstacle Course

A fantastic passive program that library users can enjoy even when their library is closed, the Sidewalk Obstacle Course is a path along the ground outside the library made of chalk!

Libraries will receive a kit containing chalk paint supplies and paintbrushes, as well as ideas and props and stencils for their obstacle course. You can then draw out the course, including lots of fun challenges for participants to complete! This is a fun and easy passive program that is perfectly suited for the sunniest place in Canada- after all, the obstacle course will disappear if it rains or snows!

Kit contents include:
  • Equipment to make chalk paint:
    • Cornstarch
    • Food colouring
    • Measuring cup
    • Plastic containers
  • Paintbrushes
  • Sidewalk chalk
  • Stencils
  • Laminated sign with information and a QR code

StoryWalk® Kits

Escape Walk kits are now available!

We have two kits currently available:

  • Escape the Enchanted Forest
  • Journey to the Stars

These kits are a cross between StoryWalks® and Escape Rooms, and are intended for children of reading age. Solve puzzles and collect clues in order to escape!

Each kit contains 7 corrugated plastic signs, measuring 18x24 inches.

Please contact Kait for more information and/or to make a booking!

StoryWalk® kits are now available!

We have a number of StoryWalk® kits currently available:

  • How to Catch a Star, by Oliver Jeffers (16 boards)
  • The Gruffalo, by Julia Donaldson (14 boards)
  • We're Going on a Bear Hunt, by Michael Rosen (18 boards)
  • The Little Old Lady Who Wasn't Afraid of Anything, by Linda Williams (16 boards)
  • Lola Plants a Garden, by Anna McQuinn (14 boards)
  • So You Want to Build a Library, by Lindsay Leslie (16 boards)
  • Planting a Rainbow, by Lois Ehlert (17 boards)
  • 50 Below Zero, by Robert Munsch (11 boards)
  • If You Plant a Seed, by Kadir Nelson (16 boards)

Each kit contains between 10 and 20 boards.

StoryWalk® Sandwich Boards

A set of 12 wooden sandwich boards are available. When booking your storywalk, please let SLS know if you would like to use the sandwich boards, or if you want metal stakes.


Before borrowing one of these kits, please read the following information.

  1. The materials will not work well in areas with very high wind. Try to identify a location with as little wind as possible.
  2. If you think that the StoryWalks® may be vandilized, please bring them indoors overnight.
  3. There are between 10 and 20 story boards in each kit. You'll need to ensure that each board can be adequately distanced from the rest, to ensure patrons can physically distance while enjoying the story. Plan out the route for the StoryWalk® kit in advance.
  4. If you don't have a suitable space to use on library property, connect with the town, local schools, or other community organizations to see if you can use their space. You can even speak with local businesses to place them in their windows, and have a storefront StoryWalk®.
  5. Plan around the weather and bring these StoryWalks® indoors if you are going to have heavy snow, extreme winds, etc.
  6. When promoting your StoryWalk® event on social media, please credit the original creator of StoryWalks® using the following text:
    1. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.

To borrow one of these StoryWalk® kits, or if you have any questions, contact the Client Services Librarian. These kits are available for extended periods of borrowing- 4+ weeks.

To request promotional materials, please contact the Client Services Librarian at least one week prior to your event.



** NEW ** Bloxels

With Bloxels, students can build video games and interactive stories, using physical blocks and gameboards to create digital art. They can bring characters to life, create artwork, design an entire videogame world, and more. And they can do this individually, or as groups. This kit includes a range of lesson plans and getting started materials.

Kit contains:

  • Bloxels Gameboards x5
  • Bloxels Blocks (400 pack) x5
  • iPads & chargers x5


3Doodler Start

Create 3D art with the 3Doodler Start pens!

These 3D pens are safe, fun, and easy to use, allowing you to create 3-dimensional art- and even write in the air.

These pens are low-temperature and are suitable for ages 8+. They can be borrowed up to three times per year, per library.

Kit contains:

  • 3Doodler Start pens x6
  • Plastic filament
  • Tracing sheets
  • Challenge cards
  • Unblocking tools
  • Doodleblocks
  • Project ideas and templates


3Doodler Create (16+)

The "advanced" version of the 3D pens, the 3Doodler Create pens reach much higher temperatures and allow you to create much more intricate art. These pens can become very hot and are not suitable for those under 16.

Kit contains:

  • 3Doodler Create pens x6
  • Plastic filament
  • Tracing sheets
  • Challenge cards
  • Unblocking tools
  • Project ideas and templates

Snap Circuits

Snap Circuits are easy to assemble, snap-together pieces of circuitry. Children can learn about circuits and electricity safely, by putting together circuits that light up, spin, make noise, and more!

Kit contains: 

  • Snap Circuits CLASSIC (61 pieces, 300 projects)
  • Snap Circuits ARCADE (36 pieces, 203 projects)
  • Snap Circuits LIGHT (32 pieces, 182 projects)
  • Snap Circuits GREEN ENERGY (50 pieces, 133 projects)
  • AA batteries (required by all but Green Energy set)

Recommended for ages 8+.


Silhouette Cameo 4

The Silhouette Cameo 4 is a cutting machine that allows you to create a wide range of DIY projects.

Please contact the Client Services Librarian to access the included guides, for introductory documents and easy beginner projects.

Kit contains: 

  • Silhouette Cameo 4
  • Standard Tack Mat
  • Weeding tools & scrapers
  • Cardstock
  • Vinyl (up to three colours)
  • Transfer tape
  • Gel pens & pen holder tool

Available on request: 

  • Rotary blade (for cutting fabrics)
  • Kraft blade (for cutting thicker materials such as leather)
  • Heavy-tack mat (for fabric/felt/etc.)
  • Light-tack mat (for paper)
  • 12x24 regular tack mat (for larger projects)

* For the moment, the kit may be borrowed multiple times, but please note that due to the cost of supplies, we may switch to a "once per year" model similar to the button maker in the future.

Recommended for adult use.


Choose what colour vinyl you want!

Choose what colour vinyl you want!

Sphero BOLT

Get ready for the Sphero BOLT!

This is an adorable little coding robot that is available for member libraries to borrow for programming!  There are so many ways to play: set up an obstacle course and navigate the robot through it; plan a route and code Sphero to follow it; build chariots and race your Spheros- the possibilities are endless!

The Sphero can be controlled using a joystick in the Sphero PLAY app, allowing you to drive the robot around like a racecar. It can also be coded to follow specific paths and instructions, using the Sphero EDU app.

Kit contains: 

  • Sphero BOLT robot x4
  • iPads x4 (Sphero PLAY and Sphero EDU apps installed)
  • Sphero Turbo and Nubby covers (x2 each)
  • Sphero chariots, ramps, bowling pins, and more!

Recommended for ages 8+.


Sphero INDI

One of TIME's best inventions for 2021!

This screenless coding robot is perfect for introducing young children to coding- and it's super fun!

This coding toy is a small car that will drive slower, faster, and change direction, based on the coloured square it drives over. A small scanner on the bottom of the car reads the ground beneath it, and tells it to stop, slow down, speed up, turn 45 or 90 degrees left and right- and celebrate when it reaches the final square!

Kit contains: 

  • Two Sphero INDI sets containing the following:
    • INDI robot
    • 20 colour tiles
    • 15 coding challenge cards

Recommended for ages 4+.


Button Maker

Kit contains:

  • 2 ¼ inch button maker
  • Circle cutter
  • Supplies for 30-50 buttons
  • Stickers, ribbons, glitter, washi tape, etc for decorating buttons

*Please note that due to supply costs, this kit may only be borrowed two times per library per year. However, if you would like to purchase your own button parts and borrow our machine, that option is available to you! Contact the Client Services Librarian for details.

Recommended for all ages (adult supervision required)

Osmo

Osmo transforms iPads into devices that allow users to use physical items like Hot Wheels, blocks, and pen and paper to interact with a digital world! Race real Hot Wheels cars on a digital track, learn some basic coding, play word and math games, or draw pictures that magically animate! Osmo is suitable for kids aged 4-12 and makes an especially great STEM program for younger participants. Learn more about Osmo here.

Kit contains:

  • 4 iPads
  • 4 Osmo bases
  • Osmo games: 
Hot Wheels Mind Racers (7+)Coding Awbie (5-10)Super Studio Mickey & Friends (4-10)
Newton (4-10)Monster (4-9)Masterpiece (4-10)
Tangram (6-12)Words (6-10)Numbers (6-10)
Counting Town (3-5)Shape Builder (3-5)ABCs (3-5)
Squiggle Magic (3-5)Costume Party (3-5)Stories (3-5)
Pizza Co. (5-12)Detective Agency (5-12)

Recommended for ages 3-12.


MakeyMakey

Ever wanted to play piano with bananas*? Make your own Dance Dance Revolution board? Play Tetris with a Play-Doh controller? You can do all of these things and more with our MakeyMakey kit! MakeyMakey are “the invention kit for everyone”.

Kit contains:

  • 3x MakeyMakeys
  • Project supplies
  • Laptops

*Bananas or other perishable items are not included.

Recommended for ages 8+.



Beginner Coding with Ozobots

Basic computer programming has never been easier (or more fun!) than with Ozobot. These tiny robots read colour code and travel on paths created by you -- all you need to make them go is some paper and markers. Make them race, solve a maze, spell your name, dance -- if you can draw it, these little bots will go there. 

Kit contains:

  • 4x Ozobots (2 Evo, 2 Bit)
  • 2x play boards (for quick start / bot demos)
  • Ozobot markers (black, red, green, and blue)
  • Paper
  • Ozobot dice
  • 2x activity guides

Recommended for ages 5+,


Oculus Quest Virtual Reality

Experience virtual reality in the library space! Our two Oculus Quests are fully wireless VR headsets designed to be easy for anyone to set up and use. You do not need a large open space, a computer, or a television to use this kit. Suitable for all ages! If you would like information about or assistance with running this program, please contact the Client Services Librarian. Games included:

  • Beat Saber- use light sabers to smash laser blocks, as demoed by Jimmy Fallon and Brie Larson here
  • Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes- work together with partners to defuse a bomb before it explodes! A great puzzle game for tweens, teens, and adults.
  • Wander- wander the world openly through the magic of VR. This is a great, quiet game for adults who want to experience VR in a calm, relaxed way.
  • Fruit Ninja- the juiciest, most action-packed burst of fruit-filled fun is here! Re-imagined by the immersive power of virtual reality, Fruit Ninja on the Oculus Quest brings you closer to the action than ever before. 
  • Floor Plan 2- Floor Plan 2 is a comedy adventure inspired by escape rooms, packed with more puzzles than you can fit in an elevator.
  • Journey of the Gods- become the hero in this first-person, legendary VR quest against the forces of evil.
  • RUSH- soar through the skies in this skydiving adventure!
  • Ghost Giant- you are the protector of the lonely little boy Louis, who’s in dire need of a helping hand. Build trust with Louis by helping him overcome big - or even gigantic - obstacles.
  • Richie's Plank Experience - 
  • Richie's Plank Experience was designed to invoke the strongest possible emotions in the shortest possible time. Entertain your friends and family as they walk the plank, 80 stories high.
  • Space Pirate Trainer DX- The official trainer for wannabe space pirates. 

Many more, including roller coasters and fishing!

Recommended for ages 13+


Building Kits

Straws and Connectors

This fun building kit contains straws (hollow plastic tubes, approx 8 inches in length) and connectors (six-sided plastic connector pieces), which kids can use to build... almost anything they can imagine! They can practice simple shapes like cubes and stars, or build castles, spaceships, and arches.

It's very open-ended and lots of fun, while also giving a chance to practicing STEM skills- namely, engineering! It is recommended for 4+, due to the smaller connector pieces (approx one inch in length). Use on its own as a program, or combine with other building stations (Legos, Keva planks) for a building party!

Kit contains:

  • 390 sticks
  • 315 connectors
  • Endless building opportunities!

Recommended for ages 5+

Keva Planks

Keva Planks can be used to build some seriously impressive structures. These small wooden planks (all the same size and width) fit together without using ANY glue or connectors, letting you create whatever you can think of, from marble runs to towers taller than you! If you can think of it, you can build it using Keva. Two kits of 400 planks each are available to borrow. This kit is suitable for all ages and can be used as either a passive program, part of a STEAM/maker night, or on its own. Encourages teamwork, creativity, and engineering skills!

Kit contains:
  • 400 Keva Planks
  • Plastic ping pong balls
  • Diagrams and instructions for building various structures

Recommended for ages 5+