Located within the Teen Center at the Queens Public Library in Far Rockaway, the STEM Center is a dedicated space for high school–aged students to explore advanced technology, creative problem-solving, and pathways into STEM. Serving teens from Far Rockaway and surrounding neighborhoods, the Center brings high quality resources and opportunities directly into a community where access to specialized STEM spaces can be limited, making it both locally rooted and broadly impactful.
Operated in partnership with NYC FIRST, the Teen STEM Center focuses on deeper, skill-based learning through hands-on engagement with robotics, digital fabrication, and computational thinking. Students build experience in coding, engineering, and design while working with tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and FIRST robotics platforms. With an emphasis on mentorship, workforce readiness, and sustained engagement, the space supports teens in developing technical skills, confidence, and meaningful connections to future education and career opportunities in STEM.
The STEM Center is located within the Teen Center of a Queens Public Library branch, and access follows the rules and age guidelines of the library’s teen spaces. Participation requires a valid Queens Public Library (QPL) library card. The center hosts teen workshops advertised through the Teen Center program schedule, and in some locations also offers credit-bearing classes in partnership with local schools. Teens without a library card may apply in person with a Photo ID (school ID, learner's permit, state ID) and proof of address (mail, report card, school schedule).
Nearby subway access is available via the A train to Far Rockaway–Mott Ave, which is the last stop on the line and located within a short walking distance of the Center.
Several MTA bus routes also serve the area, including the Q22, Q113, Q114, and Q111, with stops along Mott Ave, Central Ave, and surrounding streets near Cornaga Ave. The Q35 also connects the Rockaways to Brooklyn (Flatbush), providing additional access from outside Queens.
Street parking is available throughout the surrounding area, particularly along Cornaga Ave, Mott Ave, and nearby residential streets.
Public parking options are limited, but there are small municipal lots and metered spaces near the Far Rockaway–Mott Ave transit hub. Visitors are encouraged to check posted signage carefully for parking regulations and time restrictions.
The NYC FIRST STEM Center is located inside the Queens Public Library Far Rockaway Teen Center. Enter through the main entrance on Cornage Ave and Beach 20th St. Upon arrival, check in with library staff, who can direct you to the NYC FIRST STEM Center space. Visitors should note that the Teen Center is in a separate building from the QPL-Far Rockaway Library on Mott Ave and Central Ave.
Walk-in hours follow the Teen Center’s public hours at the Queens Public Library branch where the STEM Center is located. Access is limited to teens who meet the Teen Center guidelines and requires a valid Queens Public Library (QPL) card. NYC FIRST STEM Center member card holders may also use the space during these hours, provided they meet the library’s teen access requirements and follow QPL policies. Hours may change if the library adjusts its schedule or when workshops and other programs are taking place.
