The Playground™ is more than just a collection of items you can borrow. Across our FVRL locations, we offer hands-on in-library Playground experiences through free events and community activities that let you explore exciting tools, technology, creativity, sustainability, and wellness.

Whether you're trying virtual reality, building with Makedo, discovering nature, experimenting with STEAM activities, or exploring something completely new, there are always in-library experiences happening at a library near you.

Upcoming Playground Events can be found at the bottom of this page, or visit the FVRL Events page and search "The Playground" under filters to discover upcoming programs and experiences at a library near you.

Code & Go Robot Mouse game sitting on table.

Code and Go Robot Mouse

Learn the basics of coding through play! Program the Robot Mouse to solve mazes while building problem-solving and logical thinking skills. A fun and engaging introduction to STEAM for young learners.

A group of children engaged in play, learning to code with Cubetto through stories and hands-on play, in a bright and inviting library space.

Cubetto

Introduce early coding without screens. Cubetto uses storytelling and hands-on play to teach logic and sequencing in a fun, accessible way. Perfect for individuals or families beginning their STEAM journey.

A close up of a Dungeons & Dragons game board and dice.

Dungeons & Dragons

Step into a world of imagination and adventure. Work together to solve challenges, build stories, and explore new realms—no experience needed. Great for developing creativity, teamwork, and confidence.

A golden key inserted in a keyhole on a wooden door, emitting bright light, symbolizing discovery or unlocking potential.

Escape Room

Can you beat the clock? Solve puzzles, crack codes, and work together to escape in this fast-paced challenge. A fun way to build teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Empty green studio backdrop with softboxes.

Green Screens

Travel anywhere—real or imagined! Green screen technology allows participants to create photos and videos in any environment imaginable using digital editing and creativity.

Background texture of wooden blocks.

KEVA Planks

Build big ideas with simple materials. Stack KEVA Planks to create impressive structures while exploring engineering and design. Perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Young boy builds using magnetic Magformer pieces.

Magformers

Create in every direction with magnetic building pieces. Magformers make it easy to build 3D structures while exploring shapes, design, and problem-solving. Fun for curious builders of all ages.

A large group of children and a female library staffer, cut up cardboard using Makedo tools and screws to create imaginative cardboard creations like a dragon head.

Makedo

A cardboard construction system with safe saws and connectors encourages creativity, sustainability, and engineering skills through hands-on building. A fun, eco-friendly way to learn by making.

A person plays with a Makey Makey circuit board device by connecting it to various items to create computer commands.

Makey Makey

Turn everyday objects into inventions! Create interactive projects using simple circuits and creative thinking. A playful way to explore technology, coding, and design.

A compact, green monocular microscope with a clear lens, black grip, and focusing wheel, lying on a light wooden surface, conveying practicality.

Microscope Kit

FVRL’s The Playground™ pocket microscopes spark curiosity and support STEAM learning through observation, critical thinking, and discovery, whether examining prepared slides or outdoor findings.

Hands holding a gaming console displaying a racing game on the screen. A character is driving on a dirt track, positioned in second place.

Nintendo Switch 2

Play, connect, and explore together. Enjoy interactive games that spark creativity, teamwork, and quick thinking. A fun, social gaming experience for all skill levels.

Robotic balls - Ozobots - sit on a table with marker and paper.

Ozobots

Code through creativity! Guide Ozobots using drawings or simple programming while learning the basics of coding. Encourages computational thinking and creativity

Two tweens work together to learn coding using a Snap Circuit board.

Snap Circuits JR

Discover how electricity works through hands-on play. Snap together circuits to build real working projects like lights and alarms. A fun introduction to engineering and electronics.

A colorful snap circuit board with connected modules, including a green fan, solar panel, and motor. Energetic and educational STEM toy setup.

Snap Circuits Green Energy

Explore renewable energy in action! Build projects powered by solar, wind, and water while learning about sustainability. A hands-on way to discover green technology.

Teen using mixed reality VR headset with controllers.

Virtual Reality

An immersive 3D experience using Meta Quest 3 headsets. Participants explore virtual environments, games, and educational content that support STEAM and digital literacy.

Upcoming Playground Events

Try something new – hands-on events for curious minds.