A Makerspace Inventory
In a public library that serves a population of around 14,000 people, most of which skew older into retirement, the makerspace will be held within adult services. Shuttled into the middle between the administrative backroom and the libraries media room (a small room that houses TV’s, video game consoles, and plush chairs) the makerspace will take over what was once the AV room, a 20 by 20 space with tile floors. The back area of the room is conveniently stocked with cabinetry on the wall, and counterspace underneath it. The rest of the space is empty save for white painted brick walls and can lighting throughout. The library’s wifi is strong enough for what’s intended for the space, and therefore no additional routers will be needed. The library has extra tables and chairs that can go in the room. It is overall a very good, empty canvas.
Because the patron population skews older, we will be focusing on the inclusion of tactical machines and supplies such as sewing machines, button makers, sublimation machines, and laser cutters amongst other tools. If usage of the space increases, the library will budget for 3D printers and other more expensive, high-tech items. The Friends of The Library group has donated a total of three sewing machines, as well as seven yards of scrap fabric to the space. For a total of $3,002.25, I was able to build up a very good skeleton for a makerspace including various tools, machines, and materials for those tools and machines. Basics such as glue were included, but other basic materials such a scissors and paint will be purchased outside of this grant. Overall, I was able to max out this grant to its full potential and I am satisfied with my purchase list, as shown below:
The purpose of this grant and inventory is to help build a makerspace from scratch. This makerspace, while serving a smaller, older population, should still contain the newest technologies. However, I decided to lean towards the more tactile newest technologies that are more hands on and less technical—because of the community demographics. But, as mentioned above, the intention is to purchase additional tools and machines as the makerspace becomes more popular. I believe that this list is a very good starting point for a modern makerspace. We have sublimation machines, Cricut machines, a laser cutter, and lots of supplies for programs or makerspace free times. Moreover, I made sure to have at least five sewing machines, though these machines would not be circulated, but kept in-house. Overall, I intentionally spent the grant on various tools and machines versus a couple of 3D printers, as I considered the community and the totality of the grant. Although imaginary, it was very fun to build up a makerspace from scratch!
Hi Kyra! I really like this concept that you've developed. It's very similar to a local library near me, and I think it is extremely practical with the populat you described. I think sewing is a great addition, especially since it sounds like your conceptual community really values it. Knowing what your community will use is the best thing you can do when preparing these budgets. There are some things I'd love to buy, but I know won't get used, so I don't. I'd rather have 5 of something people love than 1 of something they don't. Great job and I really hope you maybe get to actually do this someday!
ReplyDelete-Bethany