In Pittsburgh, the end of August usually signals one thing—back to school. No matter the school district, learning is going to look a little different this fall. Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh knows this and are working to support your needs going into the start of the school year.
You may know us for our fun storytimes, teen spaces, or never-ending stacks of books; but Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh can also help the transition into the school year in other, unique ways.
We provide one on one assistance with digital literacy topics, such as navigating websites, working with Microsoft, and even how to use Zoom. You can “book a librarian” to receive assistance for any technical need by calling 412-622-3114, emailing info@carnegielibrary.org, or chatting online on our website.
We also have printing available at our curbside locations. You can pick up your prints Tuesday—Saturday from 10:00am—5:00pm. Printing is free, but please limit to ten pages per day. It’s simple—send us your print job (using one of the listed secure methods) then make an appointment to pick up your print. For step by step instructions on how to print through us and a list of the secure methods, visit our website here.
In this program-alike blog post, we focused on education related-resources such as projects for homeschooling, social-emotional activities, educator learning opportunities, and screen-break happenings.
Wide Open School helps families and educators find trusted resources to enrich and support distance learning. All in one place, individuals can access free, high-quality learning activities across subjects. Their website is a hub for more than 75 partners and supporters to bring resources together.
On their website, you can break down activities and resources by both grade level and subject. They also highlight activities and resources in topics that support the whole child, such as: emotional well-being, life skills, physical, and offline activities.
To check out all of their accessible resources, click here to visit their website.
State of Black Learning Virtual Conference
This year, State of Black Learning has taken their conference virtual. Every Thursday in August, State of Black Learning is holding a virtual session revolving around reimagining the learning experience where Black minds matter for leaders, educators, students, and parents across Pittsburgh and the country.
The fourth and last session is titled Parent Power. According to the organization, this session “will showcase parent voices and perspectives as the final session of SBL2020. In the ever-changing learning landscape this session will explore remote learning, homeschooling, race, racism, and resources.”
The best part? State of Black Learning has been recording and posting past sessions. Each session covers different topics, such as restoring culture in Black children’s learning, systemic racism in the American Educational System, the effects of COVID-19, and pivotal moments in history. More so, each session has guest speakers that are both Pittsburgh and national leaders.
If you missed past sessions, or want more information about the upcoming session, check out their website here.
Foraging for Fungi in Your Backyard
Do you consider yourself a “fun-guy?” Or do you at least want to learn more about the fungi that live in Pittsburgh? The Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club is hosting a Foraging for Fungi in Your Backyard virtual event. The presenter, Stephen Bucklin, will share information on the roles that fungi play, the basics of mushroom identification, edible species, and which species to avoid.
The program will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, August 26 from 6:00-7:00pm. Click here to register.
This fall, Write Pittsburgh is continuing their programs that center around amplifying and empowering teen voices. The groups include Girls Write, Rainbow Writers, and The Press Box.
From their websites, here is a snippet of information about each group:
Girls Write inspires girl-identified teen writers to grow their voices through writing. It is the city’s only program designed to empower girl-identified teen writers through the creative expression of writing, exposing them to a world of opportunity, through the craft.
Rainbow Writers provides an intentional space for LGBTQ+ identifying teens to grow their voices through the creative expression of writing, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, songwriting, playwriting, screenwriting, blogging, journalism, storytelling, or other types of creative writing.
The Press Box is a journalism and storytelling workshop where young writers are encouraged to bring ideas for stories they want to tell. Our workshops are designed to support the process of writing, empowering teen writers through various techniques and storytelling methods.
Since COVID-19 has affect their in-person workshops, the workshops exist virtually. The weekly workshops are free and run from September through December. The workshops are for teen writers between the ages of 12 and 18.
To contact Write Pittsburgh, fill out an application for a workshop, or learn more, check out their website here.
Take a screen break, put on your muddy shoes, and lend a hand during Trail Tuesday.
Every third Tuesday of the month, Allegheny Land Trust hosts a volunteer event at Dead Man’s Hollow Conservation Area. While walking along, you will improve the trail’s system by planting trees and native seeds; and removing trash and invasive plants.
Attendees will work at their own pace. Activities may involve climbing over various wet and muddy areas. Snacks, tools, and water are provided! Don’t forget appropriate footwear and outerwear.
The next Trail Tuesday takes place on September 15 from 6:00—8:00pm. If you have questions about Trail Tuesdays, you can contact Caitlin at cseiler@alleghenylandtrust.org. To register for the event or learn more, visit their website here.