Libraries are natural partners for two-generation learning—trusted and powerful community hubs where all parents and children, including vulnerable families, can learn together and build literacy skills in diverse and inspiring ways.

Driven by the mission of the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), Camp Wonderopolis™ is a free online resource available and open to all families, libraries, summer and afterschool programs, community organizations, and schools. In recent summers, libraries in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and Texas have tested NCFL's two-generation, blended learning approach to summer programming using Camp.Wonderopolis.org content, webinars, implementation materials, Campsite Kits, and Maker activities. Find information about the 2016 edition of Camp Wonderopolis here.

This year, thanks to the support of Better World Books, NCFL is offering libraries across the U.S. the opportunity to apply for funding to implement Camp Wonderopolis programming. Three libraries will be selected to receive a $3,000 grant, training to implement Camp Wonderopolis programming, and Campsite Kits, and will have the opportunity to contribute Maker activities and reading lists to be enjoyed by Campers around the world.

The grant application is available here and must be submitted by Friday, February 10, 2017. Winning applicants will be notified in March 2017.

Public and academic libraries are eligible.

Initial applications will be evaluated on:

• Library capacity to implement two-generation programming.
• Level of existing STEM- and literacy-focused programming.
• Ideas and concepts for Maker activities aligned with Camp Wonderopolis themes and content.

Selected libraries will be required to:

• Hold four family Camp Wonderopolis workshops between June 12, 2017 and August 31, 2017.
• Submit instructions for one Maker activity related to a Camp Wonderopolis track at the direction of NCFL staff.*
• Submit reading lists related to two Camp Wonderopolis tracks at the direction of NCFL staff.**
• Write two blog posts of 300-500 words each and provide accompanying photos, captions, and videos related to Camp Wonderopolis experiences.***

*Maker activity will be featured either on Camp Wonderopolis website or in printed materials for families and program sites all over the world to do. The activity should entail making something from common household items or items easily found in stores. Themes for Maker activities can be found in the next section of this page.
**Reading list for one Camp track contains six books in each of four categories, totaling 24 books: Preschool to Age 8, Ages 9-13, Ages 14-17, and Ages 18 and Up. An example can be viewed here; scroll to "Recommended Reading" section. Libraries will be required to submit reading lists for two tracks, therefore 48 books total.
***Examples of blog posts can be found here.

Camp Wonderopolis 2017 theme and tracks

Theme: Build Your Own Wonderocity

Tracks:

• Wonder Studio (architecture, engineering, and design)
• Wonder Job Site (construction, equipment, tools, infrastructure)
• Wonder Farmers Market (food)
• Wonder Power Plant (utilities, energy)
• Wonder Junction (transportation)
• Wonder Museum (people, history)

Click here to apply.

For easy reference, you can view/download a PDF of this application by clicking here.

Check out the Camp Wonderopolis approach and features by visiting last year's version, and how it sparked inspired learning in Campers and Counselors across the world here.

Have questions? Send inquiries to sulliman@familieslearning.org.