I am learning about the idea of library makerspaces. I mean, really just beginning to learn. I didn't even know if "makerspace" was one word or two.
Jessica Gilcreast (The Dizzy Librarian) kindly invited me to join this Wiggio group (Library Learning Commons) to share ideas. (Thanks, Jessica!) She defines makerspaces like this: Where students can make and learn alongside adults. Where students can work on their own projects while learning new, unique maker skills through on-going interest-based projects and peer learning.
It might look like this.
Photo is from the Get Your Mess On! blog.
Or like this.
Also from the Get Your Mess On! blog.
What an intriguing idea! Yes, there will be some mess and some noise. There will be some art and some science and some technology. It really could include many subjects. But do your students get time to create anywhere else on campus? Mine don't. Not much, anyway.
This idea intrigues me. I've already joined the Wiggio group, and you are welcome, too. You'll find plenty of links to help you.
I've started a collaborative Pinterest board here so I can learn more about it. If you'd like to pin to this board, just send me a message on the Library Centers Facebook page, or use the Contact button on the right side of the page. I'll add you to the group and we can learn together!
Have any of you tried a makerspace in your school library? I'd love to hear about it!
Hi Cari! Thanks so much for the support and Makerspace post! I look forward to more people joining in on this new and exciting idea!
ReplyDeleteI haven't tried Makerspace in my school library, but you can add me to the group to learn more.
ReplyDeleteSure! What is your user name on Pinterest? I'd be glad to add you!
DeleteCari
My Pinterest user name is Fuoye. Thanks
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ReplyDeleteExcellent idea! I'm getting a couple "Little Bits" sets for my grades 3-5 students to use at a "center" with some crafty supplies. Could you add me to your Pinterest collaborative board? I was just thinking of starting one when I found yours.
ReplyDeleteSorry, I forgot my Pinterest url: http://pinterest.com/mrsjinthelib/
DeleteMrs. J, I've added you to our Pinterest board. What is a "Little Bits" set?
DeleteCari
They are a commercially available set of electronic "bits" that attach with magnets. When put together, the bits make a circuit that does something...spin, move, buzz, light up. I love the idea for an elementary library because there is no heat or soldering, and many of the projects are self-guided with videos and photos on the little bits website (http://littlebits.cc).
DeleteAs long as no one swallows the bits (magnets + digestive system = MAJOR problems...so I'm trying grades 3-5 first), it's extremely safe. I've got big plans to set up a center or station for a makerspace with 2 sets of these and some task cards I'm making.
There are other commercially available sets like SnapCircuits and the LEGO programmable sets, but I am specifically looking for something students can do with little supervision from me (as I'll be circulating the room managing the whole class).
Those sound great! Thanks for telling me about those, Mrs. J. I want to try them, too!
DeleteCari
I purchased Little Bits to set up in my STEM corner in my library. Can you offer any suggestions on how to catalog them in your school library?
ReplyDelete