Local Library Helps Young Romanian Win National Science Award

Romanian 8th grader Teo Serban recently won a national science award for educational software he designed with the help of his local library and librarian.

Earlier this year, a national college hosted the “Competition of Ideas – School of the Future” science fair. Students from three schools in Valcea, Sibiu, and Gorj counties were challenged to explore a scientific concept and develop a new methodology while demonstrating their technical abilities and creativity.

Teo participated in the “Virtual tests and Web Applications for the Study of Nature” competition, and developed “FiziX— A Multifunctional Educational Software.” His software had several components, including a program that allowed for the virtual observation and testing of physical experiments, another that modified a Microsoft program to improve digital conversion from text to speech, and another that expedited the process of converting measurements. Teo received First Prize for his work.

According to Teo, the success would not have been possible without Crina Popescu, his local librarian. Popescu helped him find online resources, and even suggested some programming adjustments to make sure his software was as user-friendly as possible. Grateful for the help, Teo donated his software to the library for patron use.

Popescu is proud of Teo, but even more grateful for the ongoing support he has shown for the library and to other children there. Earlier this summer, she presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation for his assistance as a volunteer and in celebration of his recent win.

Though he appreciates the recognition, Teo is focused on a new task for the summer — a whole new software program based on a novel he read at school. Teo’s success and ongoing commitment reflect his great potential, as well as the valuable role that libraries and motivated librarians can play in inspiring innovation and creativity.

Biblionet is a five-year program that helps Romanian libraries better serve their communities through training and technology.

Interested in learning more about the role of libraries powering development? Join Beyond Access at the Local Alternatives for Global Development: Rediscovering Libraries conference on October 3, 2012 in Washington, DC.