What is Python?

Python is a popular programming language that can be used for software development, data analysis, business management, web development, and more (Code Academy). It is a recommended language for beginners to learn since it is fairly straightforward and widely used. ibiblio hosts a few guides to Python that are great resources for all levels of programmers. If you don’t already have Python installed, you can download it here.

A Byte of Python

A Byte of Python is an online textbook for everyone from beginners to experienced programmers. It starts with a general introduction plus installation instructions and covers basics, operators and expressions, functions, data structures, exception handling, and more. There is also a long list of examples for each unit.

Python for Fun

Best suited for intermediate programmers, Python for Fun provides instructions for many types of projects such as text processing, chance and probability, computer hardware simulation, and even games like Sudoku! Each walk-through comes with helpful comments and a downloadable zip file that contain all the components of the project.

Python Bibliotheca

This is a library of educational materials for learning Python. It contains links to textbooks, programming tips, and many practice problems, making it a great resource for teachers and students.

Other Tutorials

If you’re interested in learning more about Python, other resources include the Python getting started website, W3 Schools, and Code Academy. Happy coding!

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Many schools prioritize these fields since they teach valuable skills such as decision making, problem solving, and information literacy (U.S. Department of Education). STEM education classes also prepare students for a constantly changing world and give them opportunities for post-graduation careers.

Here is a list of a few sites hosted by ibiblio that are a great introduction to a range of STEM topics. To explore more, you can check out tags under natural science and mathematics and technology and applied sciences!

The Virtual Cell

The Virtual Cell provides an interactive cell biology learning experience that is both entertaining and educational. You can also access a very helpful pronunciation guide to hear the parts of the cell out loud.

3D Solid State Crystal Models

If you’re interested in physics and math, check out this site that provides interactive 3D models of crystals with cubic symmetry. While the science is complicated, the models are very fun to explore even as a beginner! It’s a great introduction to crystallography and virtual reality modeling.

The Celestia Motherlode

Here you’ll find a repository of add-ons for Celestia, a 3D space simulator. You can browse images of planets, spacecraft, and read through educational guides as well as access resources for students and teachers.

NASA’s Educational Media Archive

Nasa.ibiblio.org was a collection of scientific resources for all age groups to learn about subjects such as aeronautics, mathematics, technology, and space transportation. This site included educational videos, web activities, and guides specifically for teachers and students. To access the archive, follow the instructions in this post!

TechniCalc

TechniCalc is a site for teaching students, engineers, and academics how to use their handheld calculators. It contains resources for popular TI models and covers functions, programs, and even games.

This year, Banned Books Week is September 18 – 24. Hosted by the American Librarian Association, this event celebrates the freedom to read and brings attention to current censorship efforts that exist in schools and libraries across the United States.

Why are books banned or challenged?

Book censorship occurs when groups or organizations limit access to materials they deem too unorthodox or inappropriate to be circulated. It is common in public schools and libraries where children are the target audience. According to the ALA, books have been challenged or banned if:

1. 1. 1. the material was considered to be “sexually explicit”
      2. the material contained “offensive language”
      3. the materials was “unsuited to any age group”

The Library Bill of Rights states “librarians and governing bodies should maintain that parents—and only parents—have the right and the responsibility to restrict the access of their children—and only their children—to library resources.” Banned Books Week aims to promote controversial books and ensure students’ right to intellectual freedom!

Reading challenged and banned books with ibiblio

Classics and new publications alike can be targeted by censorship efforts. ibiblio provides access to many challenged and banned literary classics, such as the books listed here provided by Project Gutenberg!

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair

The Awakening by Kate Chopin

Ulysses by James Joyce

The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

The Call of the Wild by Jack London

To learn more about censorship and banned books, check out the Banned Books Week 2022 website and view more frequently challenged books on this page from the American Library Association.