Abstract: The MIT Public Library Innovation Exchange (PLIX, plix.mit.edu) develops creative STEAM learning experiences based on MIT research and designed for the public library setting. PLIX programs support learners as Designers—rather than consumers—of technology, Creators—rather than recipients—of knowledge, Scientists and artists—rather than one or the other. PLIX connects library professionals and MIT researchers to co-design learning experiences, develop and share facilitation practices, and integrate creative learning into public library programming. PLIX strives to increase equitable access to and broaden participation in STEAM programming. PLIX started in 2017 as a project of the MIT Media Lab Digital Learning + Collaboration Studio, and in 2024 moved to pK-12 at MIT Open Learning. In this talk, we'll cover the different ways we support the confidence of library professionals to bring creative STEAM learning to their libraries, through our online activity guides, the design of the professional development workshops, the PLIX Ambassador Program, the Community of Practice, and more. 

Bio: Ada Ren-Mitchell enjoys wrapping her brain around complex systems, and making sense of it all through community co-creation, visual information design, and prudent science communication. With a degree in Brain and Cognitive sciences, she spent 8 years in STEM education research, focusing on data science and makerspace literacy, supporting engaging learning experiences focused on personal and community interests. Her background also includes 10 years as a web and graphic designer, and 15 years as a multimodal gesture researcher exploring the complex intertwining of speech prosody with hand and body movement, and collaborated on the development of an international annotation system and training program called MultiModal MultiDimensional Labeling System (M3D) that addresses current and changing theories of human communication. Ada brings her diverse talents and personal hobbies to her current role as a Learning Programs Designer running the MIT Public Library Innovation Exchange (PLIX) at pK-12 @ MIT Open Learning, and joyfully and playfully connecting with incredible librarians around the world. Living in Somerville, Massachusetts, she supports the local arts as a member of the city arts council board.
https://adainspired.com/about-ada