RPS Lit Limo program adds STEM activities to mobile library experience

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Public Schools’ beloved Lit Limo has been delivering the joy of reading to students since 2020. Now, the district’s mobile library is expanding its offerings by merging literacy with hands-on STEM activities for the new school year.

“The kids know when you’re not doing something new and exciting,” said Judy Deichman, RPS Library Services Coordinator. “I think it’s always good to add new elements to every type of program that we have.”

RPS Lit Limo parked at J.H. Blackwell Elementary (Photo: Deniel Dookan, 8News)

The Lit Limo program transforms reading into an adventure by taking learning beyond the classroom and onto four wheels.

Deichman, who also drives the Lit Limo, said that introducing activities in science, technology, engineering and math, was a perfect fit for the program.

“STEM just seemed a natural way to be able to extend their critical thinking and extend their knowledge and have more hands-on activities,” she said.

The upgraded Lit Limo is equipped with Wi-Fi and new tools such as a 3D printer, robot kits and Chromebooks. The goal is to give students opportunities to pair their love of reading with creativity and critical thinking.

“Children will be able to come out with their school librarian and we’ll do all different kinds of activities,” Deichman said. “They’ll be able to be creative, make what they want to make and experiment.”

Student uses building blocks on the RPS Lit Limo. (Photo: Deniel Dookan, 8News)

This year, Lit Limo began rolling through neighborhoods in the summer, ahead of the start of the school year, to give students a preview of what’s to come.

One student said they already have big plans for the new tools.

“Now I’m going to make an airplane so I can travel every single place in the world,” they said.

Deichman said the mobile library will continue to evolve to match student interests and expose them to skills and careers they may not otherwise encounter.

“[That student] could be a future engineer or an architect, you know,” Deichman said. “Those are the skills we’re trying to build now and make them familiar with the careers that are out there and available.”

Over the next several weeks, the Lit Limo will make stops at each elementary school in Richmond before moving on to middle and high schools across the city.