This document discusses maker spaces in public libraries and relevant trends. It defines maker spaces as areas that allow patrons to engage in hands-on creation using tools like 3D printers, music editing software, and craft materials. The document examines several case studies of libraries that have implemented successful maker spaces, noting they shift focus from passive consumption to active creation. Common elements include open access to tools and resources, staff assistance with projects, and accommodating different types of making like music, coding, crafts and more. Maker spaces are shown to enhance lifelong learning and participation in culture.

1. “The mind is not a vessel to
be filled but a fire to be lit.”
- Plutarch
MAKER SPACES
LAUREN BRITTON AND KEN ROBERTS

2. Introduction
Mandate of
Libraries/Relevant Trends
Definitions/Possibilities
Is there a right “fit” for your
library system?
Common issues and
barriers
MAKER SPACES

3. The Mission of Your
Library
Hamilton
Freedom to Discover
Chattanooga Public
Library
. . . .the community’s
catalyst for lifelong
learning.

4. The Mandate of
Your Library
Do you provide:
the word(s), the facts, the
format(s), the tool(s),
or
Do you enable:
discovery and the process of
discovery?

5. The Introduction of
Public Access
Computers
1. Many models were tried
(experimentation Stage).
2. Public enthusiasm but resistance
within the profession (Is this really
our role?).
3. Codification of common model
(blocks of time for individual
research).
4. Slow modification of the common
model.

6. There are . . .
Makerspaces
Fab Labs
Hacker Spaces
Discovery Centers
Innovation Hubs
YouMedia Centers
Mix and Match

7. Copenhagen Public
Library
An instrument zone where
customers can pick up an
instrument and begin to play.
By toggling a switch, they can
play together.
There is no booking.
There are no time limits.

8. Malmo Public
Library (Sweden)
A Discovery Center where
customers bring projects to the
library, review their project
needs with staff and then either
learn to use the necessary
software or book blocks of time
on computers with excellent
multi-media capabilities
(including scanners) to complete
their projects.
The gentleman in the slide
wants to do a family history
website.

9. Amsterdam Public
Library
Music Editing Room – quality
space with high visibility.
It is only empty because the
library is not yet open.
Again, the emphasis is on
assisting people with their
creative projects.
Big Lesson #1
The shift fromsupporting consumption of material to
supporting the creation of material

10. Chicago’s
Youmedia Center
Designed using MacArthur
Foundation research that
identifies ways that young
adults like to learn:
Peer Learning/Sharing skills
On-Line activities
Gaming
Exploration/Discovery
Living and Learning with New Media

11. Edmonton Public
Library
A Maker Space with Espresso
printing, music editing, green
screen, 3D printing, Lego
robotics, etc.
2,500 square feet.
Staff who are constantly on-the-
move, helping customers to get
started with projects.
Active and busy and noisy.

12. Many Makerspaces
are in smaller
libraries
Innisfil Public Library (located
an hour north of Toronto with a
population of about 35,000) has
a Makerspace and, building on
its connection to creativity, has
an Artist—in-Residence
program.
Innisfil recently had a Tinker-In-
Residence.

13. Those that participate in the creation of their
culture and engage with our democracy
Those that consume culture and have little
voice in our democracy
Is there an emerging new
Divide?

14. http://makeitatyourlibrary.org
http://www.instructables.com
http://makezine.com
http://tinkerlab.com
http://www.exploratorium.edu
http://www.modernparentsmessykids.com
Resources