Tips for getting started with a Library Makerspace.

3. A place where
students learn to
use tools and
material and can
develop creative
projects
A collaborative
learning
environment where
students share
materials and new
skills
A place where
students can create
content as well as
consume it – an
incubator for ideas.

5. Supports a
mission of
providing
resources and
opportunities for
learning
Builds critical
thinking and
problem solving
skills
Fosters a culture
of creativity and
collaboration
Supports STEM /
STEAM learning /
PBL / Genius Hour
and design
thinking

7. Designated space
Pop-up space
Moveable storage
space
Any underused
area
Think …..
Storage
Display
electricity

8. • Get a focus group of kids and teachers
together
• Find some experts
• Experiment / try new things
• Start with a small number of tools
• Be digital and non-digital
• Form a Maker’s Club
• Donations
• Gumtree / ebay
• P & C grants
• Library Budget
• School funds

9. • 3D Printer
• Building tools (K-nex / lego)
• Small Electronics (Little Bits, Arduino,
Raspberry Pi, Makey Makey)
• Arts and Crafts
• Take apart technology
• Robotics (Lego, Sphero)
• Digital Tools (coding, minecraft,
tinkercad, game creation)
• Gadgets (Google Cardboard, Occulus Rift,
drones)

10. Encourage these
students into
your Library
Space to create

12. • Don’t worry about the space – its
more about the culture
• One step at a time – introduce new
equipment and tools slowly
• Foster students as experts
• Let kids be creative – its not
about the latest gear
• Encourage girls as well as boys