Cornerstones of Science helps partner libraries connect with skilled scientific presenters so they can offer engaging and informative science programs (without needing to be experts themselves!). Cornerstones is creating an interactive online database of experienced scientific presenters that library partners can use to expand science programming throughout the year. Its Science Provider Network, launching in late 2015, will foster ongoing collaboration between public libraries and the scientific community, helping libraries become community science centers.

Participating scientists will benefit from having libraries as a valuable new venue for sharing impacts of their research with diverse audiences. Taking research findings out to the broader community can provide countless benefits—for the individual researchers and society at large. If you are a scientist interested in joining the Network, please contact Cornerstones.

Through a generous Maine Community Foundation grant, Cornerstones can soon provide this information free of charge to partner libraries. The searchable Science Provider Network database will include details on presenter topics; audience age range; geographical area served; and fees charged. If you’re a librarian needing help in the meantime with finding appropriate presenters please contact Cornerstones.