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Overview
The RAIL (Robotics Advancement in Libraries) framework was developed to help public libraries introduce affordable, hands-on robotics education through reusable engineering activities and student volunteer leadership. Rather than creating a one-time event, the goal is to provide libraries with a sustainable implementation model that can continue expanding long after the original Girl Scout Gold Award project is complete.
The framework combines engineering activity stations, implementation documentation, volunteer training resources, and community partnerships into a repeatable model that allows libraries to host recurring STEM workshops without requiring robotics expertise from library staff.
Implementation Toolkit
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.
Libraries participating in the RAIL framework receive a growing collection of implementation resources designed to simplify workshop preparation and ensure consistent delivery.
The implementation toolkit currently includes:
Workshop setup guides for each activity station
Materials and equipment checklists
Volunteer instruction guides
Workshop schedules and rotation plans
Participant activity instructions
Safety and equipment handling guidelines
Library implementation documentation
Workshop evaluation and feedback resources
Each resource is refined following workshops to improve clarity, organization, and ease of implementation.
Engineering Activity Library
The current Regency Robotics workshop includes a collection of modular engineering activities that introduce different robotics and engineering concepts. Each activity can operate independently or as part of a larger rotating workshop.
Additional engineering stations will continue to be developed as the RAIL framework expands.
Equipment & Materials
One of the primary goals of the project was to keep implementation affordable while maintaining an engaging learning experience. Activities were intentionally designed around reusable materials and commercially available educational robotics equipment.
Typical workshop materials include:
Makeblock mBot robots
Laptops or tablets
Printed engineering activity components
3D-printed custom activity pieces
Vinyl floor paths and navigation layouts
General classroom supplies
Because nearly all materials are reusable, recurring workshops require very little additional cost beyond routine equipment maintenance.
Affordable Makeblock mBot robots provide the foundation for Regency Robotics workshops, allowing libraries to deliver engaging STEM activities using durable, reusable educational technology.
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.
Student Volunteer Model
Student volunteers review activity instructions before participants arrive, ensuring each engineering station is prepared and consistent across every Regency Robotics workshop.
High school robotics students serve as mentors throughout each workshop, creating a collaborative learning environment that benefits both younger participants and high school volunteers..
Volunteer responsibilities include:
Demonstrating engineering activities
Assisting students during robotics challenges
Explaining engineering concepts in age-appropriate ways
Troubleshooting robotics equipment
Encouraging teamwork and problem-solving
Supporting workshop setup and cleanup
This peer-mentoring model allows younger students to learn from experienced robotics students while providing leadership, communication, and community service opportunities for high school volunteers.
Documentation & Continuous Improvement
The RAIL implementation documentation is designed as a living resource that grows alongside the program. Rather than producing static documentation, guides are updated following each workshop based on participant feedback, volunteer observations, and implementation experience.
The growing implementation documentation currently includes:
Station setup guides
Volunteer training materials
Materials lists
Workshop schedules
Troubleshooting guides
Library implementation procedures
Future engineering activity documentation
This continuous improvement process helps ensure that workshops become easier to implement and more engaging with each event.
Implementing the RAIL Framework
The long-term vision of RAIL is to provide a model that can be adopted by additional public libraries and community organizations. The implementation process follows a repeatable cycle that guides libraries from establishing community partnerships to continuously improving workshops through participant feedback and implementation experience.
Rather than ending after a single event, each workshop strengthens the next through documentation updates, volunteer experience, and participant feedback.
This structured approach allows libraries to introduce robotics education while adapting activities to meet the needs of their local communities.
Future Development
Regency Robotics has grown beyond its original Girl Scout Gold Award project and continues to evolve through ongoing engineering development, community partnerships, and recurring library workshops.
Planned future development includes:
Additional engineering activity stations
Expanded volunteer training resources
Continued refinement of implementation documentation
Additional 3D-printed educational materials
Expanded community outreach events
Partnerships with additional public libraries
Continued development of the RAIL implementation framework
The long-term goal is to create a comprehensive library-based STEM education model that can be replicated by communities seeking affordable, sustainable robotics education opportunities.
Ana introduces the RAIL framework to community members during STEMapalooza, gathering feedback and building partnerships that support future library implementation.
Interested in Bringing RAIL to Your Library?
RAIL was created to demonstrate that public libraries can successfully host engaging robotics workshops using affordable equipment, reusable engineering activities, and student volunteers. Libraries, schools, robotics teams, and community organizations interested in developing similar programs are encouraged to explore partnerships that expand access to hands-on STEM education within their communities.
If your library would like to learn more or discuss hosting a workshop, please contact:
Christiana “Ana” Thomas
Founder, RAIL (Robotics Advancement in Libraries)
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