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Supported by NIH SEPA
Advancing
Reading and
Nutrition Science
through library-based science education programs
for children in
K-2nd grade.
LEARN Science is an informal life science and reading program through a nutrition science lens to improve science knowledge and science identity of youth in Mississippi using storytelling.
girls intently reading in library
Why learn science?
Studies show that poor science achievement in childhood negatively impacts adult health, due to poor scientific literacy and reasoning. Informal life science and nutrition education through library programming leverages an opportunity for not only improved science achievement, but also improved health, in children — now and as adults.
Learn Science
Library Kits
learn science kit mock
Science nutrition curriculum kits for grades K-2 that blend stories with science and nutrition terminology; inquiry-based, hands-on science activities; and scientific observations and reflection
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Learn Science
Library Academy
learn academy mock
Professional Development Program (PDP) providing mentoring and training to build self-efficacy to teach science among library staff and stakeholders
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Highlights from Our Recent Impact

Dr. Aleshia Hall-Campbell
July 27, 2026

Mississippi LEARN Science Hero Leads Efforts to Improve School Meals

LEARN Science Hero Dr. Aleshia Hall-Campbell leads the only federally-funded national center dedicated to applied research, education and training, and technical assistance for child nutrition programs.

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Pearl River Early Child Care Center
July 22, 2026

LEARN Science Team Participates in “Farm to Library” Training

The LEARN Science team was hosted by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians to learn about farm to nutrition program processes to safely use seasonal local foods.

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Angela Rutherford
July 20, 2026

Rutherford Leading Literacy at Ole Miss and Across Mississippi

LEARN Science co-investigator, Dr. Angela S. Rutherford, is a literacy leader in Mississippi and the nation.

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Composting-Pilot-June-16-2026 Rose-Mary-Shelton-Kerri-Greene
June 17, 2026

LEARN Science Team Pilots Composting Kit in a Rural Appalachian Mississippi Public Library

The LEARN Science Team piloted the "From Trash to Treasure" kit on June 16, 2026, in Bruce, MS. Hosted by Jesse Yancy Memorial Library, fourteen children participated in the program intended to facilitate children's understanding of composting.

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Just Transformations June 2026
June 15, 2026

LEARN Science Presents at Just Transformations Conference in Burlington, VT

LEARN Science presented a poster presentation June 8-10, 2026, on using storytelling to teach composting to youth at the Just Transformations: Reimagining Sustainable Food Systems and Cultures conference in Burlington, VT. 

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50th Celebration
May 8, 2026

LEARN Science Public Library Partner Celebrates 50 Years!

The Jesse Yancy Memorial Library in Bruce, MS, celebrated its 50th anniversary on May 3, 2026.

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