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A Framework for Bringing Robotics Education to Public Libraries
About the RAIL Framework
RAIL (Robotics Advancement in Libraries) was designed as a sustainable and replicable framework that allows public libraries to provide hands-on robotics and STEM programming using affordable equipment, reusable activity materials, trained volunteers, and documented implementation resources.
Regency Robotics serves as the pilot implementation of the RAIL framework at Regency Park Library and has been used to test activities, evaluate participant engagement, and refine program materials. Following the successful launch event at Regency Park Library, the program has continued expanding through community outreach events including STEMapalooza and a Brownie Girl Scout STEM workshop at Starkey Ranch K-8.
The program will continue through scheduled workshops at Regency Park Library from 2-3:30 p.m. on June 25 and July 23, 2026, with support from LED Robotics student volunteers and reusable station guides that enable future independent implementation by library staff and volunteers.
The continued workshops and outreach activities demonstrate the sustainability of the RAIL framework through its founding program, Regency Robotics.
RAIL Implementation Model
Libraries can implement the RAIL framework using a structured station-based model designed for beginner robotics education and STEM outreach.
Establish a partnership with a public library or community organization.
Obtain beginner-friendly robotics equipment.
Assemble reusable activity stations using RAIL documentation.
Recruit and train volunteers.
Conduct station-based robotics workshops.
Collect participant feedback.
Refine and expand programming.
This structured model allows the program to be adapted to different library and community environments while maintaining consistent hands-on STEM learning experiences and long-term sustainability.
Volunteer Training Model
Student robotics volunteers support workshop delivery by guiding participants through each activity station and demonstrating how robots respond to sensor input, programmed movement, and remote control navigation.
Volunteers supported all activity stations during the launch workshop and will continue assisting with future RAIL workshops.
Volunteer roles include:
• Explaining robotics concepts clearly
• Assisting with troubleshooting during activities
• Encouraging experimentation and problem-solving
• Supporting collaborative learning between participants
This mentorship structure strengthens both student engagement and volunteer leadership experience while helping libraries sustain future Regency Robotics events.
Ana trains LED Robotics volunteers to lead activity stations and assist participants during RAIL workshops.
Future Growth Opportunities
Future expansion goals include:
• Continue offering workshops through Regency Robotics at Regency Park Library.
• Expand RAIL to additional Pasco County library locations.
• Develop additional robotics activity stations.
• Recruit and train new student mentors.
• Expand and refine implementation resources based on workshop feedback.
• Strengthen partnerships with schools, robotics teams, and community organizations.
• Explore opportunities for regional expansion beyond Pasco County.
The long-term goal of RAIL is to provide libraries with a complete robotics outreach framework that can be implemented independently using documented activity guides, volunteer training resources, and reusable workshop materials.
Ana demonstrates RAIL robotics equipment and activity materials to Regency Park Library staff. Libraries implementing the program receive documented activity guides, training resources, and hands-on support materials.
What Libraries Receive
RAIL Resource Package
Libraries implementing RAIL may receive:
✅ Activity Setup Guides
✅ Volunteer Training Materials
✅ Equipment Inventory Recommendations
✅ Maze Construction Documentation
✅ Troubleshooting Guides
✅ Workshop Planning Resources
✅ Survey Templates
✅ Sustainability Recommendations
Pilot Program Startup Cost
The table to the right reflects the equipment and materials used to launch the Regency Robotics pilot program. Costs may vary based on available supplies, local pricing, and activity selections.
Libraries may reduce costs by using existing materials or modifying activities to fit local budgets.
Interested in Bringing RAIL to Your Library?
RAIL was created to make robotics education accessible, affordable, and sustainable for public libraries. Libraries interested in implementing the program are encouraged to contact Christiana Thomas at christianathomas2027@gmail.com for additional information about the framework, activity resources, and implementation process.
The successful Regency Robotics pilot program, STEMapalooza outreach event, and Brownie STEM workshop demonstrated that the RAIL framework can be successfully implemented through student mentorship, reusable activity materials, and strong community partnerships.
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