The Innovation Hubs

Earlier in December, Toronto Public Library celebrated the Hour of Code.

The Hour of Code is a global movement with the aim of reaching people in countries all over the world to learn more about computer science during Computer Science Education Week. 

Here’s a short video on what Hour of Code is all about:

From December 8^th to 14^th, 2014, several Toronto Public Library branches offered free, hands-on programs to people of all ages. Here’s a highlight of some of the fun Hour of Code programs:

• Kids learned how to make their own version of the Flappy Bird game at the Jane/Sheppard Branch
• A Beginners Python Programming class was offered in the Digital Innovation Hub at Fort York Branch for people to learn how to create simple programs using variables, functions, and IF statements
• At Jane/Dundas Branch, adults had fun learning about Java, another computer programming language

There was also an opportunity for people to meet the library’s Innovator in Communities coding & programming expert, Lindy Wilkins!

Lindy’s Exciting Electronics program was held at York Woods, Morningside and Eglinton Square Branch where people of all ages got to learn about Arduino microcontrollers and how to use them to make cool interactive objects!

Participants at York Woods Branch learning how to light up an LED using an Arduino

Participants of all ages learning how to program an Arduino

Lindy introducing participants to the Arduino at Eglinton Square Branch

If you’re not familiar with Arduinos, check out this video from Make Magazine:

The Hour of Code programs were definitely a fun way for people with or without computer or coding experience to learn something new and to get excited about computer science and technology!

Want to learn more? You don’t have to wait till the Hour of Code! Check the Toronto Public Library website for more programs and books on Arduinos or coding. 

You can also use an Arduino at one of our Digital Innovation Hubs! Here’s a list of all the in branch equipment you can use. 

Thank you to all those who participated in the Hour of Code for 2014! Look forward to even more programs and ways to celebrate the Hour of Code later this year!

For more information about the Hour of Code, visit http://code.org/hourofcode