ACCESS Lending Library Program

K-12 Educators: Join our STEM Lending Library in the National Capital Region!

The ACCESS Lending Library allows K-12 teachers in the D.C. Metro area to reserve and check out a variety of STEM resources for their classrooms. There is no cost to participate, and we offer free professional learning sessions at the National Air and Space Museum for all of our members!

Benefits to Joining the ACCESS Program:

  • Free access to educational resources for your classroom, including PocketLabs, DroneBlocks, Spheros and Edison Robots!

  • Lessons and hands-on demonstrations with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research STEM Team

  • On-site professional learning at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

  • Networking, collaboration, and leadership opportunities for all participating teachers

Our lending library includes:

  • DroneBlocks classroom sets

    DroneBlocks has partnered with Swedish company Bitcraze to create the ultimate STEM drone kit for classrooms of all levels. These new drones are versatile open-source flying development platforms that only weigh 27g and fit in the palm of your hand.

  • PocketLab stem bundle

    PocketLab Bundles offer a comprehensive solution for educators who want to equip an entire classroom with tools that will engage students and simplify lesson planning. The STEM bundle includes Voyager 2 sensors, Thermo sensors, Air Sensors, Temperature Probes, and more!

  • Snap Circuits Green: Alternative Energy Kits

    This innovative kit contains real circuit components that snap together to create working electronic circuits and devices, featuring projects designed specifically to illustrate different sources of electricity. The kit includes over 40 pieces and a manual with 129 different projects

  • littlebits STEAM classroom kits

    Developed with educators, this electronics kit is designed to teach STEAM principles and encourage exploration, experimentation, and hands-on learning. Each kit serves up to 3 students and can be used in a range of grades and content areas.

  • edison robots

    Edison is a programmable robot designed to be a complete STEM teaching resource for coding and robotics education for students from 4 to 16 years of age. Designed for the classroom environment, Edison robots are durable, have no loose parts to manage, and are easy to store. Edison works right out of the box, fully pre-built with all sensors ready to use. There’s no software to install or manage, making it easy to use Edison with different device types and platforms.

  • sphero bolt power pack

    The Sphero BOLT Power Pack is the perfect classroom tool for engaging students in hands-on STEAM activities. It has a waterproof design, all-day battery life, and advanced programmable sensors. The BOLT Power Pack includes 15 programmable robots, an inductive charging case, an Educator Guide, and accessories.

FAQs:

How much does it cost to participate?

There is no cost for teachers to participate. The only expenses you need to consider are related to transportation and meals.

Who can join the ACCESS Lending Library Program?

At this present time, we have reached capacity for the ACCESS Lending Library Program. If you or your school would like to participate in future cohorts of our program, please complete the form below.

Where is the lending library located?

Our lending library is located in the Ballston neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia.

What counts as the National Capital Region?

You can use this handy National Capital Region Map as a guide. We prioritize educators from within this zone.

What if I can’t make all of the on-site sessions?

We highly encourage our participants to make as many of these professional learning opportunities as possible; they provide hands-on experience with the lending library resources and a chance to connect with the learning community.

How long can I take out a resource?

Typically, class resources are reserved for 2 weeks at a time; if you have specific needs for your classroom, we may be able to offer extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Have questions about the ACCESS Program? Please fill out this form and a member of the AFOSR STEM team will respond shortly.

Please note: Our current ACCESS cohort is full, and we are not accepting new participants at this time.

The A.C.C.E.S.S. (Advancing Collaborative Curriculum Engagement for STEM Stakeholders) Lending Library Program is led by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research STEM Team.