More and more, libraries are becoming social places where people gather to create and collaborate, often in areas called “makerspaces”. A makerspace is a physical location where people gather to share resources and knowledge, work on projects, network, and build. Libraries around the world are moving some of their stacks to make room for 3D printers, tools, and other “hands on” materials in an effort to reinvent themselves as hubs for high-tech innovation. With the creation of makerspaces in many libraries we see a trend toward less quiet study areas and more noisy hands-on learning environments.
Libraries are evolving into inviting workspaces for informal, project-driven, self-directed learning. As when any groups of people come together in social situations, this does require some application of etiquette and social skills in practice. Makerspaces promote cooperation among strangers and provide workspaces in which to tinker, try out solutions, and hear input from others with similar interests.
American Library Association President Barbara Stripling has noted the value of makerspaces in libraries, saying, “Makerspaces are enabling libraries to transform their relationship with communities and to empower community members of all ages to be creators of information, not just consumers.” (Rutkin, Aviva. "Make Some Noise." New Scientist 223.2978 (2014): 01. Academic Search Premier. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.)
According to the American Library Association, about 1 in 6 libraries now dedicates some of its space to maker tools and activities.
With advances in technology, STEM requirements in schools, and general popularity, libraries are embracing digital and social media attempting to become “hubs” for sharing knowledge. This promotes connected learning - learning that is interest driven, socially connected, and tied to not only school achievement but real world opportunity. (Ito, Mizuko, and Crystle Martin. "Connected Learning And The Future Of Libraries." Young Adult Library Services 12.1 (2013): 29-32. Academic Search Premier. Web. 15 Apr. 2015.)
A future in which public libraries are noisy, messy, creative workshops is an exciting prospect and reinforces the idea that libraries can be places where people gather to interact and not just co-exist. They need to be places of invention and discovery, not just a place to find or store books. The concept of a “hands-on” approach to learning may just be the environment necessary to keep libraries relevant in today's tech world.
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| (A billboard advertising information sites for makerspaces or sometimes called hackerspaces) |
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