Maker Spaces Wanted

Two years ago, while working at my library, I came up with the idea of opening up a space where tech guys like myself, could host workshops and teach the newest technology involving libraries. Now, my library doesn’t necessarily have the space available — however, we made due with what we currently had. Right after Christmas in 2013, a co-worker and I designed a space/plan to help patrons who received e-readers, computers, or tablets for Christmas — get acquainted with their new devices. The program was a success, as the library obtained comment forms and positive vocal feedback. Forward to September 1st, 2015 where in San Diego, a public library opened up its first biotech lab. The La Jolla-Riford Branch Library of San Diego (SDPL) did this in order to host a variety of classes and talks from visiting scientists (Peet, 2015). Ultimately, the new Bio Lab promises to take Collaboratory’s citizen science mission a step further. To get started, the library needed equipment, which was donated by local sources. Thankfully, the library’s new lab meets safety standards, which are equivalent to that of a high school laboratory (Peet, 2015). The library currently offers, microscopes, DNA copying machines, electrophoresis, a vortex mixer, and other basic molecular biology equipment, not to mention access to the library branch’s 3-D printer lab and including a 50-person classroom (Peet, 2015).

As addressed by the SDPL director, Misty Jones, “The library’s mission is to inspire lifelong learning through connections to knowledge and each other” (Peet, 2015). More importantly, Jones mentions that, “We want to make sure that this isn’t just something that happens once; [we] set up a model that can be picked up by other communities” (Peet, 2015). While reading this article, I couldn’t help but wonder. What if library’s planned their maker spaces for something similar? Not necessarily the context of a Bio Lab, or my idea of a tech workshop. But, since public libraries especially serve communities, and endeavor the idea of “providing lifelong learning,” why don’t many more libraries create these spaces and programs for their public? Ideally, if a mission statement of a library is to do just that, then maybe this branch of the SDPL — is on to something here. Whether it’s a Bio Lab, or a Tech Workshop, public libraries need to narrow down what their patrons want, and come up with an idea to provide a lifelong learning opportunity.

Reference:

Peet, L. (2015, September 9). San Diego Opens First Public Library Biotech Lab. Retrieved from Library Journal: http://lj.libraryjournal.com/2015/09/public-services/san-diego-opens-first-public-library-biotech-lab/