For my inspiration report I wanted to explore how libraries are pairing their Library of Things collections to programming to empower patrons.
Click here to view my report.
For my inspiration report I wanted to explore how libraries are pairing their Library of Things collections to programming to empower patrons.
Click here to view my report.
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Hi Liz! Great ideas — when I read “Cooking with an Instant Pot,” I immediately said “Sign me up!” I got a pressure cooker not too long ago, but sometimes I still fear it. Guess I’ve seen to many pressure cooking gone wrong videos…so a class on that would be really helpful lol — but that’s besides the point, I agree with you that providing intro classes paired with an extended Library of Things collection would be immensely beneficial to the community. It not only promotes creativity and the idea of trying something new, but it also ensures that the Library of Things equipment is being used safely and appropriately. Ultimately, ensuring that such collection items can stay in circulation for other community members to try.
Tina, this whole project came out of my desire to learn how to sew and not wanting to pay $150 to learn machine basics, the going rate for sewing machine classes in my area. Your comment about proper use and extending the life of the equipment is something I did not even consider and is so clear. Thank you for pointing that out!
Nice work with this report. I love reading about how other libraries do their “Library of Things.” It’s such a great resource for communities when someone might only need a piece of equipment once a year. At my library, we do craft programs for all ages with our maker space equipment, and they are very popular. As to your mention of the cost of materials, if there is an actual program using the equipment, materials are included, but for people who just want to use our studio on their own, there is a small materials cost.
Jen, I am so happy to hear the Makerspace classes are for all ages. I have been struggling to find classes that are for people in the 20s – 40s age range. I have seen prices for material fees at libraries for this research and it was very reasonable, making this an accessible option!
That’s interesting that you were struggling to find programs for the 20-40 range. Our programs are broken down into children (ages 0-5; most maker-related programs are for grades 3-5, depending on complexity), teens (grades 6-12), and adults (18+).
Liz, I really love this idea of not only having a Library of Things, but using that library collection to foster programming of basic life skills. I think that this is one of those programs that needs to happen in many libraries domestic and international. Too often some of these skills have gone by the wayside due to technology. Getting back to those “grandma” skills fosters a new generation of creativity amongst users. The added benefit is that you can add to both the physical book collection, the online collection, and the Library of Things dependent upon user interest and needs for this type of programming.
Becca – I love the zoomed out scale of how-to programming with the physical, digital and material collection. I think I was too in the weeds when researching and that is a great perspective.