Resource Loan Program

The SLC aims to support science educators looking to expand their scientific literacy and build confidence with the new Education Resource Loan Program. Launching in 2026, our team has spent two years developing and testing a system for local educators to borrow resources for their classrooms.

These instructional materials can be easily implemented in all three dimensions of the CA Next Generation Science Standards including, but not limited to:

  • Disciplinary Core Ideas
    • LS1 - From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
    • LS4 - Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
  • Cross Cutting Concepts
    • Patterns
    • Structure and Function
  • Science & Engineering Practices
    • Asking questions and defining problems
    • Planning and carrying out Investigations
    • Analyzing and Interpreting Data
    • Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The variety of materials in these kits give educators the flexibility to explore different uses in the ways that best align with their curriculum and benefit their students.

young girl is gently cradling a garden snail in the palm of her hand. A young boy is looking over her shoulder at the snail.
A young girl is gently cradling a garden snail in the palm of her hand. A young boy is looking over her shoulder at the snail.
student intern in the Science Learning Center pointing out unique characteristics on a black bear skull.
A student intern in the Science Learning Center pointing out unique characteristics on a black bear skull. 

How to Make a Resource Loan Request

Please take a moment to complete the Resource Loan Request Form. A staff member will contact you via email within 2-3 business days to confirm your choices, provide additional information, and answer any additional questions you might have regarding your rental.

Request Resource

Resource pick-up and drop-off will be on Fridays between 12:00pm-4:00pm at the Science Learning Center located in the Hall of Science on the CSULB Campus (1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90840). Parking information will be provided upon confirmation.

For all other inquiries, please email us directly at science.center@csulb.edu

Resource Catalog

There are two resource kits that are available for loan: Critter Investigations and Animal Skulls. These kits include instructional materials that supplement educators' current lesson/unit plans and are not designed to be curriculum kits.

Critter Investigation Kit

critter kit
A table display of the critter investigation materials including question prompts, rulers, hand lenses, handling spoons, and supplies for the living critters. 

Classroom-friendly live invertebrates that students can explore, investigate, and interact with. Teachers can customize the type and amount of critters you would like to borrow.

The Critter Investigation Kit includes:

  • Living Invertebrates (selection and availability may vary)
  • Investigation Materials
    • Question Prompts
    • Rulers
    • Hand Lenses
    • Handling Spoons
    • Critter Care Supplies

Note that the critters will stay in the classroom for the duration of the loan. The SLC will provide instructions and some supplies for their care.

Animal Skull Kit

skull kit
A display of the animal skulls available for loan in one skull kit, including skulls, an identification key, and a weather-proof storage box. 

An assortment of animal skulls (some real, some replicas) that students can explore and investigate. Most of the skulls in the kit come from animals found in Southern California.

Each Skull Kit includes:

  • 5 Mammal skulls with at least one herbivore, carnivore, and omnivore
  • Skull Identification Key