Science in a Bag

Science in a Bag

What is Science in a Bag?

First introduced in 2021, the Science in a Bag program provides free take-home kits filled with hands-on activities, which are available for pick-up at libraries throughout Wisconsin. This program is presented by the Wisconsin Science Festival in partnership with the Morgridge Institute for Research. Each bag is hand-packed by volunteers and contains up to six different activities, in addition to access to digital resources to expand the Science in a Bag experience. In 2025, partners including Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom, the Ice Age Trail Alliance, PPG, Alliant Energy, and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin contributed kits to the bags. With their help, 3,000 kits were distributed throughout the state thanks to the South Central Library Distribution Service. Check out all the sites that received and distributed bags in 2025 below!

What does the Science in a Bag program mean for your library?

The Science in a Bag program provides free, hands-on STEAM kits to libraries all across Wisconsin. By offering free, take-home STEAM kits, libraries can reach patrons of all ages with engaging, accessible activities that spark curiosity and creativity. This program helps bridge gaps in access to educational resources, supports lifelong learning, and reinforces the library’s role as an inclusive community space where science and exploration are available to everyone, while being an easy way to engage with the Wisconsin Science Festival as an event host.

See below for testimonials and learn more about how to apply to be a Science in a Bag pick-up site!

“The most valuable thing about hosting is meeting new families. We once had a small bus of kids brought in from a youth group 1.5 hours away. The kids were so excited. They made a field trip out of vising our library, all because we were a hosting site.”

T.B. Scott Library, 2025 Science in a Bag Pick-up Site

“Patrons loved the idea of science kits for families to take home and hope that continues.”

Winter Public Library, 2024 Science in a Bag Pick-up Site
“Having the Science in a Bag Kits increased the value of the patron experience. They were delighted to receive the bags!”
Hortonville Public Library, 2025 Science in a Bag Pick-up Site

“We had so many people check in to get a science in a bag! It was wonderful being able to share this amazing program with people. Our patrons loved this event, we were out of bags by the end of the second day! It was really an exciting event.”

Prairie du Chien Memorial Libary, 2023 Science in a Bag Pick-up Site

How to get FREE Science in a Bag STEM kits for your library

Applications to receive Science in a Bag kits will open on April 16th following the 2026 Wisconsin Science Festival Virtual Kickoff Party (learn more here!). The form will be available on this page. Applications will be due by July 15th and libraries will be notified of their status no later than August 15th. Libraries that are not initially selected will be on the waitlist for 2026.

While we wish every library in the state could receive bags, we do have a limited quantity. We endeavor to ensure that the spread of bags is equitable and broad. Libraries not selected one year will be considered first the following year – a new application must be submitted each year to be considered.

A huge thank you to our 2025 contributing partners: