Makerspaces@your School Library

Consider the Possibilities!

Abstract

Community centers called “Makerspaces,” “Hackerspaces,” and “Hubs” are materializing in schools, libraries, and industrial buildings across the globe. Educators believe that the Maker movement has the potential to stimulate interest in learning in the STEAM areas (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) because hands-on inquiry learning is embedded in every Maker activity. School libraries have always been resource centers for student inquiry learning and many school librarians see Makerspaces as a means to attract students and faculty to the school library for instructional collaboration. This paper provides an overview of Makerspaces in school and community settings and offers advice for school librarians interested in becoming involved in the Maker movement.