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'Forensics: The Science of Crime' one of programs for teens at Washington-Centerville Public Library

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Washington‑Centerville Library’s New “Forensics: The Science of Crime” Program Empowers Teens with Real‑World Skills

The Washington‑Centerville Public Library’s newest youth‑centered offering—“Forensics: The Science of Crime”—has already sparked excitement among students, parents and local educators. Launched in March as part of the library’s expanding STEM‑and‑Beyond series, the program is designed for teens ages 12‑18 who have an interest in law enforcement, science, or simply love a good mystery. Over the next eight weeks, participants will conduct mock crime‑scene investigations, learn how to collect, preserve and analyze evidence, and gain a behind‑the‑scenes look at how modern crime‑labs work.


A Hands‑On Approach to the Science of Crime

Unlike many library‑based programs that lean heavily on passive learning or simple demonstrations, the Forensics series takes a decidedly “learn by doing” philosophy. The library’s partnership with the local police department’s crime lab and the Washington‑Centerville High School’s science faculty gives students access to actual forensic tools and protocols.

The curriculum is broken into four modules:

  1. Crime‑Scene Basics – Students learn how to properly walk a crime scene, photograph it, and identify potential evidence. They practice using gloves, tape, and evidence bags in a mock crime‑scene set up in the library’s conference room.

  2. Evidence Collection & Preservation – Teens test the difference between “dry” and “wet” evidence and learn the importance of chain‑of‑custody documentation. They handle simulated DNA samples and learn how to keep them from contamination.

  3. Laboratory Techniques – In a “mini‑lab” created in the library’s science wing, participants test blood, hair and fiber samples using microscopes, centrifuges and basic chemical reagents. Local police forensic technicians guide them through the process, explaining how real investigations rely on these steps.

  4. Putting It All Together – Students receive a “case file” and must apply everything they’ve learned to produce a written report and present their findings to a panel of judges (composed of library staff, police, and high‑school science teachers). The final showcase mimics a courtroom presentation, complete with evidence slides and a “jury” of peers.

The program also includes “Guest Lectures” from local forensic pathologists and detectives, giving students a glimpse into careers that often begin with curiosity about the science behind crime. According to library director Maria Hernandez, “The goal is to demystify forensic science. We want kids to know that a career in this field requires both rigorous science and a keen eye for detail.”


Community Partnerships and Resources

The library’s collaboration with the Washington‑Centerville Police Department’s Crime Lab is one of the program’s most distinctive features. Police Captain Daniel Ruiz, who has been a volunteer mentor for the past two years, says the partnership gives teens a real taste of what it takes to work in a professional lab. “We’re providing them with the same protocols we use on real cases,” Ruiz explains. “It’s a unique educational opportunity.”

High‑school science teacher Lisa Thompson also co‑designed the curriculum. She notes that many students in her classes express a fascination with crime dramas but never realize there is a real science behind the fiction. “By the end of the program, they’re asking questions about DNA, trace evidence, and even statistical probability,” she says.

The library’s investment in the program was supplemented by a grant from the City of Washington‑Centerville’s Department of Education. “We’re proud to see the library step beyond books and become a hub for STEM learning,” said Deputy Mayor Kevin L. Miller. “The forensics program is a perfect example of how libraries can serve the community in innovative ways.”


Student Experience

When asked what they liked most, 14‑year‑old participant Alex Rodriguez shared that the hands‑on evidence collection was a highlight. “It’s like being a detective, but in real life,” he says. “Seeing the sample under the microscope and figuring out what it could mean for a case— that’s the part that really excites me.”

Another teen, 16‑year‑old Jasmine Lee, reflected on the teamwork component. “Working with my classmates to solve the case was tough, but it taught us how to communicate findings clearly, which I think is a skill I’ll need in any career.” She also praised the library staff’s dedication. “They’re so patient, and they always make sure we’re following proper protocol.”

Parents also feel the program’s impact. Maria Gonzales, mother of 13‑year‑old Tyler, noted that her son “has become more interested in science overall, not just forensic science.” She also appreciated the library’s emphasis on ethical considerations, such as privacy and evidence integrity. “The program teaches that with great power comes great responsibility,” she added.


Looking Ahead

The library intends to keep the Forensics series running annually, with plans to expand it into a full semester course for older teens and an introductory “Crime‑Scene 101” for younger participants. Additionally, the library is working on a “Forensics Outreach” initiative, where the program’s educators will visit schools in the region to share the experience and materials.

“We’re excited to see how many of our teens will go on to study forensic science, biology, or criminal justice at the university level,” Hernandez said. “Our mission has always been to provide resources and learning opportunities to all residents. This program embodies that mission perfectly.”

In an era where misinformation about crime and justice is rampant, Washington‑Centerville Public Library’s Forensics program offers a valuable, evidence‑based perspective that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility. As the program concludes its first cohort, the library plans to collect data on participant outcomes and refine the curriculum to serve even more teens in the years to come.

For more details about enrollment, schedules, and partnership opportunities, residents can visit the Washington‑Centerville Public Library’s website or contact the library’s youth programming department directly.


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