York University Libraries will partner with groups both on and off campus to celebrate Science Literacy Week, which runs nationwide Sept. 21 to 27.
This year marks the second annual Science Literacy Week and the expansion of the event cross-country.
There will be an exciting series of community events on campus to highlight the importance of literacy, exploration and innovation.
“I’m delighted to see York University participating in this community engagement event that brings institutions, schools and the public together in a national event showcasing science,” said Joy Kirchner, York University librarian.
Events will include film screenings, science demonstrations and an engaging talk on how astronomy and dinosaurs relate.
Silence of the Labs Screening – Monday, Sept. 21, 6 to 7pm (Paul Delaney Gallery, 320 Bethune College)
York University Libraries, in association with Evidence for Democracy and the Politics of Evidence Working Group, presents a screening of the CBC documentary Silence of the Labs. John Dupuis, science librarian at Steacie Science & Engineering Library, will provide opening remarks. Participants will be encouraged to sign the Science Pledge.
Science Demonstrations – Wednesday, Sept. 23, 11:30am to 1:30pm (Scott Library Atrium, second floor)
Community members can stop by the Scott Library Atrium (second floor) over their lunch break for a plethora of quick and engaging science demonstrations. Campus groups, including the Science Engagement Office and the York University Observatory, will be amazing us with the wonders of science experiments and activities.
“Astronomy and the Extinction of the Dinosaurs” – A Talk by Dr. Marshall McCall – Thursday, Sept. 24, 7 to 9:30pm (317 Petrie Science & Engineering Building)
What does astronomy have to do with the extinction of the dinosaurs? Come to this exciting talk where York astronomy Professor Marshall McCall will explain the connections. The talk will be followed by a tour of the York Observatory.
Science Literacy Week has grown from a Toronto-wide event to a coast-to-coast celebration encompassing over 100 institutions, including libraries and museums, in nearly 50 cities. This year, the organizers started a Twitter campaign called #CanadaLovesScience. Launched on Sept. 10, #CanadaLovesScience is filled with pictures and videos highlighting the role of libraries, museums and other organizations in engaging people with science.
For a complete listing of Science Literacy Week events, visit scienceliteracy.ca.