Library Makerspaces - General Resources
Makerspaces are
collaborative learning environments that serve as gathering points where
people come together to share materials, knowledge, and experiences.
Makerspaces can have all different varieties of materials and tools (hi tech
and low tech) where the focus is to create, invent, tinker, explore, and
discover using the tools, materials, and knowledge available. The mindset of
a makerspace is community partnership, collaboration, and the free exchange
of ideas.
Here is non-exhaustive list of
Creative,
Innovative, and Makerspaces in Nebraska and Nebraska libraries. If your
space is not listed, or your have a link to add,
contact us.
General Makerspace Resources
There are far too many resources to be listed here. The following list is a decent start, but certainly not exhaustive.
Common Terms
- Hackerspace: Generally a makerspace with
an emphasis on computer programming, electronic circuit
design/manufacturing, robotics, game consoles, and digital art.
- Makerspace: A general all encompasing term
used to describe a physical space with equipment and tools that enable
people the opportunity to gather, create, invent, and learn. Typically,
makerspaces have technology and electronic equipment available, but also
can have metalworking, woodworking, robotics, arts and crafts, or other
items. For a more exhaustive list, see our list of
common items.
- Maker clubs: Communities often have
maker clubs where like minded people gather to collaborate and share
tools. These clubs might be focused on specific areas (e.g. robotics or
quilting); other times they are not.
- Maker kits: While mobile makerspaces often
have larger equipment that would need a cart or is not easily
moved, a maker kit typically involves things that easily fits into tubs
or liftable crates. Sometimes these kits can be circulated or checked
out from the library for an extended period of time.
- Mobile makerspace: This is a set of
maker equipment that can be easily moved from place to place. Sometimes
these are set up in temporary locations for a certain time period,
shared between library branches, or different school classrooms.
This set up might be necessary if the library does not have an adequate
amount of room for a permanant space.
- Pop-up makerspaces: These can be a variant
of mobile makerspaces. While mobile makerspaces typically reside within
one library location or between library branches, pop-up makerspaces
often travel to different locations for a limited period of time (such
as a day, week, or months). Pop-up makerspaces allow a library to try
tools and equipment during this time to determine if there is sufficient
community interest or support.