Makerspaces

Spacse have been designed to allow users t create, build, and learn new projects and technologies, makerspaces employ a variety of tools such as 3-D printers, AutoCAD design software, and even open-source hardware like Arduino Kits. Developing a communty around shared use of space and equipment, a tenet of the makerspace movement, fits squarely into libraries’ mission. Bagley examines nine mkerspaces in public, academic, and school libraries, describing their design and technical decisions in depth and showing how each is doing something unique and different, under a wide range of budgets and project offerings. A sourcebook of ideas that readers can apply at their own institutions, Bagley’s guide * Defines the makerspace, and describes why it fits perfectly into the library’s role as community center * Answers common questions about implementing a makerspace project, detailing how libraries are addressing issues such as registration, usage policy, noise, software programs in digital workspaces, adapting spaces, funding, and promotion * Illustates aaproaches libraries are taking to staffing makerspacwes, from Anchorage Public Library’s Maker in Residence and Mesa Public Library’s THINKspot coordinator, tot he library school studenrs involved with University of Michigan and University of Illinois makerspace projects