Makerspaces

The resources below explore makerspaces, physical locations where people gather to share resources and knowledge, work on projects, network, and build. Makerspaces are zones of self-directed learning, providing a physical laboratory for inquiry-based learning and are primarily used for technological experimentation, hardware development, and idea prototyping. Increasingly, though, individual inventors and creative teams are using makerspaces to build projects in fields other than engineering and technology.

The Case for a Campus Makerspace

2013

This post from the Hack Education blog describes the maker movement, various maker tools, and the teaching and learning value of the method.

Is it a Hackerspace, Makerspace, TechShop, or FabLab?

2013

This article provides a short history of the hackerspace and makerspace movements and also explains techshops and fablabs. It includes illustrations of each, with links to further resources.

Makerspace: Playbook

2012

After providing a name and e-mail address, you will be sent a step-by-step guide on how to get a makerspace up and running. It includes information on space selection, pedagogical approaches, tools, materials, and safety.

Manufacturing Makerspaces

2013

This resource site from American Libraries includes various examples, potential uses, a historical timeline, equipment suggestions, and a resource list—all to support the development of a makerspace.

Makerspaces Move into Academic Libraries

2012

This post from the ACRL TechConnect Blog details the value of makerspaces and the learning needs they fulfill. Several examples and illustrations are provided.

Georgia Tech’s Makerspace is a Model for Higher Education

2013

This article describes Georgia Tech’s Invention Studio, a campus-wide makerspace open to any faculty, student, or staff member and project. The Invention Studio features $500,000 of equipment, has 3,000-square feet, serves over 500 users per month, and is supported by 70 students (members of the makers club).

A Model for Managing 3D Printing Services in Academic Libraries

2013

Drawing from the University of Alabama’s 3D printing studio experience, this article describes how to implement and evaluate a studio and also provides suggestions for future improvements to such a lab.

OCTOBER 2013

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