“Makerspaces” is an all encompassing term used by libraries to define a space for creation and collaboration. This workshop at NEFLIN on October 26th explored makerspaces through STEAM. STEAM stands for: Science, Technology, Art, Engineering and Music.
The workshop encouraged participants to get hands-on with the items available in NEFLIN’s Equipment Loan and Novare Library Services. This included: 3D Printing, Beamz Interactive Musc, Bloxels, Legos, Lego WeDos, LittleBIts, Makey Makeys, Ozobots, Sewing and drawing. During the workshop, we focused on the importance of a makerspace in libraries – especially school libraries. Participants explored, learned and collaborated in several makerspace areas in the room and discussed the hows and the whys to getting a space set-up within their library. At the end of the session, participants were able to borrow items from NEFLIN’s Equipment Loan and immediately experiment and have programming at their library with many of these items.
The official class description is:
Creating a space in your library for users to make is a trend that is continuing to grow. Whether you are considering a small portable Makerspace or a permanent space in your library – this workshop will help take new and existing makerspaces to the next level.
During the session, we will explore:
- What is a Makerspace – and what does this word encompass including all aspects of STEAM education
- How to make the case for a Makerspace
- How to plan for a Makerspace your community will use
- Implementation and management of a Makerspace or program
- Programming and planning to make your program/space an ongoing success
The session will be repeated in February in Gainesville. Registration is now open.
Slides from the session
The icons used in this post and the slideshow are from Flat Icon: Vectors Market