Makerspaces

Last week, Dasha, Steph D, Guy and myself attended a Course called "Makers, Craftivists and NSW Public Libraries" at the State Library.

Notes are in Drive but not entirely finished:
Makers, Craftivists and NSW Public Libraries

Once again, the Makerspace Revolution is a hot topic.

In 2014 it was number 7 on ALIA's Trend Library Report, and its popularity has continued to grow.
I thought I would shed some light for those of you who are curious...

Wikipedia states: A hackerspace (also referred to as a hacklab, makerspace or hackspace) is a community-operated workspace where people with common interests, often in computers, machining, technology, science, digital art or electronic art; can meet, socialize and collaborate.

Makerspaces can include but are not limited to:
Knitting
Sewing
Digital Media
3D Printing
3D Design
Lego
Looming

Makerspaces are social levellers. They can combine ages, genders and cultural backgrounds. Makerspaces promote community learning and lifelong learning. It is learning through hands-on creation.
You may have guessed that our library service has already begun to promote this type of shared learning, such as our various workshops that have been held, however, we are trying to formalise the 'Makerspace' program.

Rather than waiting for the Sutherland re-design, a makerspace program has been planned, which will probably take place in the meeting room. After research, our Makerspace will not be self managed and will be more like a 'pop-up' makerspace, to give us the opportunity to assess the need for what our library users really want.

Our planned program includes various hands on experiences such as:
Zines/Badge Making/Paper circuits/Stop motion animation/3d printing/Making Ipad covers and other suggestions.

In preparation for this program, various items have been ordered for the library. Watch this space as I am sure Dasha will not be able to contain her excitement when objects arrive!

And I am hearing you say... "Why do we need a 3d printer?"

3D printing technology is helping students develop the science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) skills they need to compete in the global economy. Like schools, public libraries are leading the effort to promote STEAM education through 3D printing.

And for the general public.....it's fun!

But don't worry! I think a major point to remember in this concept is that you do not need to be highly "tech-savvy" to enjoy all the benefits of this revolution. We all possess some form of creativity that is waiting to be unleashed!

Checkout Library Makerspaces on Pinterest

Thanks Dasha and Steph D for all their knowledge which has helped with my own thinking.
Tynelle