TLA District 8 Fall Conference September 26, 2015 How to Create a Makerspace Jim Johnson, Branch Librarian Patrick Ferrell, Innovation Lab Assistant Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library
Objectives Describe steps to consider when constructing a makerspace or establishing maker programs Share examples and suggestions on what to do once your makerspace or maker activities are in place
A MAKERSPACE is a physical location where people gather to share resources and knowledge, work on projects, network, and build. educause.edu/eli
Research Resources Makerspace Playbook The Makerspace Workbench Make Magazine American Library Association: www.ala.org/tools/makerspaces Existing Makerspaces Chicago Public Library Westport Library (CT) Fayetteville Free Library (NY)
Types of makerspaces Dedicated Permanent space in your library building Mobile Cart with maker activities and equipment Pop-up Makerspace or programs intermittently scheduled in various areas Takeaway Maker items or equipment that can be checked out
Focus STEM Technical, electrical, or mechanical skills, including 3D printing, CAD, computer coding, circuit building, soldering, microcontrollers, etc. Digital Media Game design, photo editing, movie making, sound recording & editing Arts & Crafts Knitting, sewing, various artistic activities, creative writing and/or self-publishing
Communication/Feedback Patrons Present the idea(s) publicly in a forum or program; conduct a survey Staff Include all staff in the process Other makerspaces Don t just research other library makerspaces. Communicate directly with those involved.
Funding & Support Grants IMLS, STEM-friendly engineering companies Library Fundraiser Through Friends of the Library or directly with the public Local Organizations Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, etc. Local Businesses - Hardware, craft, hobby, or electronics; 3D printing and Tech companies
Partnering Connecting with even one local maker community can effectively connect you with the larger maker community. Maker organizations in Houston: TX/RX, CreatorSpace, Katy Makerspace, Proto Makerspace, Houston Makerspace Partnering with a local maker group is a win-win. These groups are often happy to receive help growing their community or member base, which also allows the library to enhance its programs and services.
Rebranding You may already identify some of your library programs with a kind of brand in your publicity. It s not unlikely you already have programs at your library that could be considered maker programs. Logo designed by HCPL librarian Meredith Layton Creating a new brand to identify, headline, and publicize your maker programs should involve not only new programs but should also include existing maker programs.
Successful Makerspace Policies and Procedures Be Accessible Be Safe Be Flexible
JHLIL Objectives Provide public access to design and fabrication resources Offer classes covering a range of DIY and STEAM topics of interest to local makers and students Foster a community of makers to share passions, offer encouragement and collaborate on projects
Resources
School Projects
Gifts and Hobbies
Prototyping
Classes Some classes act as orientation for using the maker tools Other classes lower the barrier to access to new skills
Makerspace Rubric Learn one new thing Have fun
Community Collaborative learning User Groups Relationships with makerspaces Partnerships with local schools Adapting to the needs and interests of our patrons
Volunteers are partners who share the mission and vision of the library and assume ownership of the makerspace, and the paid staff serves to support the volunteers.
Activity LED Throwies