Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Proof of Concept, Food- and Nutrition-Focused Science Education Program for Youth in Public Libraries

A four-lesson, hands-on, food- and nutrition-focused science education program was developed for a rural public library as proof of concept for science education in public libraries. Backpacks with materials, supplies, books, and evaluation postcards were provided. This manuscript summarizes program development, implementation, and evaluation, including perceived science learning gains and experiences of youth participants in kindergarten through eighth grade. This program improves perceived science learning gains of and provides positively perceived science experiences for participants. Public libraries have the potential to improve accessibility of U.S. children to informal science education to potentially elevate both science literacy and good health.