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<p><strong><u>CHULA VISTA LIBRARY HOLDS INNOVATION STATION COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE</u></strong></p>

<p>A little-used area of the lower level in the Chula Vista Public Library&rsquo;s Civic Center Branch has been transformed into a colorful, high technology learning space for school and public use. The library, at 365 F Street, will host an Open House to introduce the community to the new Innovation Station, on Friday, October 7, from 2 to 5 p.m. Library and school district personnel will be on hand to answer questions and give hands-on demonstrations. Refreshments will be served.</p>

<p>The collaboration between the library, Qualcomm, and the Chula Vista Elementary School District opened in August with hands-on learning sessions for local sixth graders. Included in the new shared space are beanbag chairs, work stations, craft and electronics supplies and a 3-D printer.</p>

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<p>Inspired by Qualcomm&rsquo;s Thinkabit Lab in Sorrento Valley, the Innovation Station is a space where students, families and people of all ages can collaborate on projects, with opportunities to create, invent, tinker, explore and discover using a variety of tools and materials. The goal is to introduce youth to the possibilities of a career in technology or engineering, and to inspire an appreciation for invention and experimentation in all visitors.</p>

<p>&ldquo;We&rsquo;re interested in attracting military veterans looking to re-enter the workforce, and other adults and older teens who want to develop skills for jobs in science, technology, engineering and math,&rdquo; said Betty Waznis, Library Director.</p>

<p>Funding for the lab was funded by the City of Chula Vista, Friends of the Chula Vista Library, and in-kind support from Qualcomm. It also was supported in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.</p>