Hyperlinked Communities Reflection

3D Printers in Atherton Library’s Makerspace (a San Mateo County Library branch)

When @michael wrote“…3D printing isn’t emerging, it’s here. Digital skillsets are now the norm, not the cutting edge,” I found myself nodding in agreement as I finished reading that paragraph (Stephens, 2019). Librarians of the 21st century not only emphasize early literacy, but also have taken great strides to push for computer and digital literacy programming. In the interconnected age we live in today, digital literacy is indeed no longer an optional skill; it is critical for education attainment, civic engagement, employment, and simply, everyday life (just think about the number of times we use our phone throughout the day!). 

Noting the fact that libraries have evolved into community learning hubs where patrons can access technology, learn new digital skills, and bridge gaps in access to information, I was then prompted to think about our library non-users. I know that library users can often get the computer help they need, but what about non-users? In my community, I know of many library branches that are hard to access via public transportation – in that case, what about the community members who may not have access to a car? Wouldn’t they miss out on opportunities to gain digital literacy skills, despite the library offering in-person computer classes? 

SMCL’s Bookmobile

This was when I thought about this module’s keyword: outreach. Outreach can allow us to meet community members where they’re at. It also allows us to connect with library non-users. We can engage new community members and reignite old connections. Something cool I know that my library system is doing is sending a Bookmobile out into the community. The Bookmobile is the size of a school bus, and is designed to fit a collection for children and adults, including new movies and books, WiFi hotspots, Spanish language materials, and other popular items. What’s even cooler is SMCL’s Makermobile!

SMCL’s new Makermobile

With the Makermobile, anywhere can become a makerspace. The ability to learn about 3D printing, 3D modeling, and basic makerspace equipment just got a lot more accessible, and that’s what the #hyperlinkedlib is all about!

Thanks for reading! @tinazhen signing off! 

References 

Stephens, M. (2019). Libraries in balance. In Wholehearted Librarianship: Finding Hope, Inspiration, and Balance. ALA Editions

San Mateo County Libraries. (n.d.). Bookmobile. https://smcl.org/mobile-services/bookmobile/

San Mateo County Libraries. (n.d.). Makermobile. https://smcl.org/mobile-services/makermobile/