The Makerspace Librarian’s Sourcebook

Abstract

is an award winning author and editor in library and information science technology and series editor for several books for a popular librarian series providing valuable information to librarians. She is indeed an expert in maker culture having two more recent additional texts highlighting maker spaces. This important and informative handbook for librarians provides a reference point for persons interested in learning more about makerspaces, trends, issues, funding, equipping and creating a makerspace. This information is critical for library communities to be mindful of their focus and the resources needed and associated with maker culture. This "one stop handbook" provides a detailed index which helps readers identify the various areas covered in this topical area associated with the future of libraries and librarianship and how we provide collaborative spaces for our users.The text is divided into three parts: Part one Creating the Makerspace; Part two Makerspace Materials, Tools and Technologies; and Part three Looking Ahead. In Part one, the expert contributors explore the definition of a makerspace and their purpose, one writer Bronkar indicates that "the focus is on sharing and learning in a synergetic environment". The main types of libraries that makerspaces are found in are examined; the public library been described as the "forefront of the makerspace movement". Examples of libraries and their makerspace foci are analysed. The book articulates that focus must be decided on before initiating a makerspace project as this is vital in its creation; for example, in an academic library, the emphasis would be more project-based training and the equipment would be typically adjusted with the curriculum in mind or it could be problemsolving projects. Numerous examples of makerspace equipment starter lists, with estimated costs, 3D compatible software, and popular apps associated with them are looked at. Training, planning, policymaking and marketing the space are briefly touched. Pedagogy and the different learning styles that occur in these informal spaces are delved into. Lesson plans, maker education, curricular material relevant to a makerspace, and the library projecting its goals and the needs of its institution through this medium is scrutinized. The