Join us for a FREE, fun, and family-friendly hands-on science event for all ages (but especially for those aged 6-12). Every Science Night explores a different, exciting scientific topic through experiments or demonstrations, an interactive Question & Answer session with an expert guest and a hands-on activity (with household items). Plan for the activity to last about 30-45 minutes.

BONUS: The Collins Library staff is picking the best reads and media to complement our Science Night topic for you to check out!

Topics for the 2020-2021 season

Upcoming Science Nights

March 25, 2021 - Electricity

Electricity and electric circuits keep our daily life going. But what actually is electricity? Science Night will explore these concepts together - through hair-raising (literally!) demonstrations and hands-on experiments for the participants.

View book list for the October Science Night.

Go to detail page to add event to your calendar.

Go to webinar

April 22, 2021 - Optical Illusions

This month, we'll be learning to think like a scientist! We explore how seeing can be deceiving rather than believing ;). Participants should prepare for optical illusions, critical thinking and hands-on experiments showcasing the scientific process and how scientists go about their work.

View book list for the October Science Night.

Go to detail page to add event to your calendar.

Go to webinar

Summer Break

Past Science Nights

September 17, 2020 - Engineering Challenge

Who is up for an ENGINEERING CHALLENGE? Skyscrapers, bridges, dams - modern civil & mechanical engineering is so fascinating! But where do engineers take their inspiration from? And, what all do engineers think about when building these amazing structures? This Science Night delves into the world of structural engineering, and participants will apply the demonstrated concepts immediately.

Household supplies for hands-on engineering challenge:

• 30 toothpicks
• 1 pack of gumdrops

View book list for the September Science Night.

Watch the video

October 15, 2020 - Going Viral

This month's Science Night explores the many facets of a virus! How do healthcare workers protect themselves and how can you protect yourself and your family from a virus? What can researchers do to help unravel the mysteries of a new virus? Join us to hear from local healthcare workers on the frontlines of the fight against COVID 19 & a MagLab researcher who is using magnets to tackle COVID-19!

Our special guests include Dr. Simone Lescott from the TMH, Antwan Brooks, Director of Respiratory Services at Capital Regional Medical Center and Professor Sam Grant, a MagLab researcher and professor in Chemical & Biomedical Engineering at the FAMU/FSU College of Engineering.

Household supplies for hands-on experiment:

• 1 soup bowl
• 2 cups of water
• pepper
• soap

View book list for the October Science Night.

Watch the video

November 19, 2020 - Light(s)

Fitting the season, we will be exploring what light is, talk about the fun properties of light, rainbows and why the sky is blue. Be prepared to learn about the fun and amazing properties of light - color - lasers!

Household items needed:

• A CD
• A flashlight.

View book list for the November Science Night.

Watch the video

January 28, 2021 - Cryogenics/Temperature

We will learn about TEMPERATURE and CRYOGENICS! Participants will explore different temperature scales and how materials change in astonishing ways at different temperatures. Really cool ;) !

Household supplies for hands-on experiment:

• Ice cubes
• Paper Towels

View book list for the September Science Night.

Watch the video

February 25, 2021 - Magnets

Come and explore the fascinating properties of magnets with us. This Science Night features insights into the fascinating world of magnetism! Join us as we share our enthusiasm for magnets and the science they enable us to do!

Household supplies:

• Fridge magnet
• Several (5-10) metal paper clips

View book list for the February Science Night.

Watch the video