Explorer Camps @ SLCL
Summer 2025
Explore your creativity and build essential skills at our Explorer Camps! Explore and learn something new in a fun, hands-on environment at the Clark Family Branch.
The Library will offer six sessions of one week camps from Monday to Friday for youths ages 12-17 years old. Camp hours will run from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and lunch will be provided.
Drop Off & Pick-Up
Early drop off at the Clark Family Branch will start at 8:00 a.m. While the camp concludes at 4:00 p.m., campers can remain at the branch until they are picked up, no later than closing. Branches close at 8:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday and at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.
Free Shuttle Service
Parents and caregivers unable to drop off their child at the Clark Family Branch can elect to use free transportation provided by the library. Camp shuttles will run from the Natural Bridge Branch (7606 Natural Bridge Rd St. Louis 63121) and the Weber Road Branch (4444 Weber Rd. St. Louis 63123) to the Clark Family Branch. Return shuttle service to the original pick-up location will also be provided. Shuttles will depart the neighborhood branches promptly at 8:15 a.m. and will return by 5:00 p.m.
The Explorer Camps are sponsored by the Clark family.
Application Process
Applications will be accepted March 10-April 4. Participants will be chosen by lottery as space is limited. Campers will only be allowed to participate in one camp, but can apply for multiple camps. A St. Louis County Library card is not required but applicants must be a resident of the St. Louis County Library District.
Applicants will be notified of their selection status via email, to the address provided on their application, by April 11, 2025.
Camp Offerings
Makerspace Exploration
June 9-13 or July 21-25
Designed for curious minds this camp offers a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge technology and learn valuable skills in a fun, hands-on environment. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about making things, this camp will empower you with the tools and knowledge to turn your ideas into reality. Unleash your inner maker and dive into exciting projects using 3D printers, laser cutters, a recording studio, gaming equipment, and more! Develop valuable skills like design thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration while bringing your own creations to life. Explore different areas by experimenting with a variety of maker activities, from electronics and woodworking to digital design and fabrication.
Entrepreneurship & Product Design
June 23-27 or August 4-8
Journey into the world of business ownership. You'll learn the skills you need to turn your creative ideas into successful businesses. Develop your entrepreneurial mindset by learning about market research, business planning, and financial literacy. Master the art of product design in the library's Creative Lab. You’ll use 3D printers, laser cutters, large format printing, and vinyl cutters to design and prototype innovative products. Gain valuable sales and marketing experience by learning how to effectively market and sell your creations.
History Detective
June 23-27 or July 21-25
This camp is perfect for budding historians, curious genealogists, and anyone interested in exploring the past. Trace your family tree and learn how to research your ancestors using online resources, historical records, and even DNA analysis. Explore local history by delving into the rich past of our community and develop research skills by piecing together historical puzzles. You’ll preserve your findings by creating a family history project allowing you to share your discoveries and cherish them for generations to come.