Beginning tomorrow, Google will be offering free coding classes at the Queens Library.
The program, called Google CS First, aims to increase access and exposure to computer science for students through after-school, in-school and summer programs. This is the first time a large tech company is partnering with a library to help students develop computer science skills early-on in their learning.
Over 25 Queens Library locations will offer these classes twice a week for children in grades 4-8 free of charge, with all skill levels welcome. The classes will cover animation, art, fashion and design, game design, music and sound, storytelling and pairing on projects.
Upcoming generations have inevitable tech-filled futures, and programming is quickly becoming a basic skill in today’s highly digital society. Programs like Code.org and Girls Who Code have already popped up in the space to fill this need, emphasizing the importance of access and encouragement while learning computer science.
The program will be run by the Queens Library staff and a group of high school students will be trained to help kids in the program.
“By learning CS, not only will your children be able to bridge the digital divide in our city and country, but they will be able to make technology do what they want it to do, and gain the discipline, sense of persistence, and problem-solving skills they need to succeed—and have fun doing it too,” the library writes on its website.
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