Makerspaces in Libraries

Makerspaces, sometimes also referred to as hackerspaces, hackspaces, and fablabs are creative, DIY spaces where people can gather to create, invent, and learn. Makerspaces are becoming increasingly popular in both public and academic libraries as a new way to engage patrons and add value to traditional library services. In libraries they often have 3D printers, software, electronics, craft and hardware supplies and tools, and more.

From planning your innovation center to hosting hack-a-thons, guest lectures, and social events in your new lab, Makerspaces in Libraries provides detailed guidance and best practices for creating an enduring, community driven space for all to enjoy and from which both staff and patrons will benefit. Discover how you can create a makerspace within your own library though this step-by-step guidebook. This well researched, in-depth guide will serve libraries of all sizes seeking to implement the latest technologies and bring fresh life and engaging programming to their libraries.Readers will learn: *Host a Make it @ Your Library Day *How to Do Public Pop-Up Makerspace Projects for Fun & Community Engagement *Learning about 3D Printers through Practical Printing Projects: Seed Bombs *Getting Started with Arduino: Illuminate your Library with a LED Ambient Mood Light *How To Create Simple Laser Cut Objects *How to Host a FIRST Robotics Team at the Library *Hands-on Engagement for Senior Makers: Squishy Circuits *Creating an Entrepreneurship Center *Hosting a Hackathon, Building a Coding Community