By Jon Johnson
SAFFORD — The Safford City-Graham County Library was transformed into a bustling scientific laboratory on Thursday, June 18, as a captivated, all-ages crowd gathered for a special “Dry Ice Experiment Interactive Science Show” presented by Matt Ryan, of Steam Labs AZ.
The hands-on event is part of the library’s ongoing Summer Reading Program, which aims to keep local youths engaged and learning throughout the school break. Attendees of all ages watched as ordinary blocks of frozen carbon dioxide produced bubbling potions, screaming metal experiments, and massive clouds of vapor, safely demonstrating the principles of sublimation and chemistry.
Sparking Curiosity with Steam Labs AZ
Brought to the Gila Valley by educator Matt Ryan, Steam Labs AZ is an organization dedicated to making science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) accessible, exciting, and highly interactive for youth. Rather than just lecturing, Ryan’s presentation style prioritizes heavy audience participation, allowing local children to step up as “junior scientists” to handle equipment and witness chemical reactions firsthand.
By utilizing everyday curiosities like dry ice, Steam Labs AZ focuses on breaking down complex scientific concepts—such as the rapid phase transition of solids directly into gases—into high-energy, memorable visual spectacles that inspire a lifelong interest in the sciences.
The interactive showcase is just a small sample of the massive lineup planned for the community this season.
A Summer Packed with Free Community Activities
The Summer Reading Program has grown into a cornerstone community resource for families across the Gila Valley. Supported by local partnerships, the initiative provides accessible, educational entertainment throughout the warmest months of the year.
“This is just one of over 70 programs offered this summer to celebrate summer reading, courtesy of the city of Safford, United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties, and Friends of the Safford Library,” Assistant Library Director Lesley Talley said. “Go to our website or just come see us at the library.”
The scheduling lineup for the remainder of the summer features events designed for all age brackets, including early childhood literacy storytimes, teen crafting sessions, and major weekly family presentations.
How to Get Involved
Participation in the Summer Reading Program and its accompanying events is entirely free to the public.
Families can track their reading progress to earn prizes and incentives before the summer concludes. To view the full calendar of the remaining 70-plus events, register for reading challenges, or find operating hours, community members are encouraged to visit the library’s official website or speak with staff directly at the front desk.
