Share your learning goals.

As the single librarian of a small academic library, it's important to me to make an effort to learn and network virtually. I also find it fascinating that some libraries have great success with certain tools or approaches while others find the same tools less useful. Further, trends in public and academic libraries tend to differ significantly, but I think each can inform the other: makerspaces is one of these crossover trends. 

I'm hoping to hear how makerspaces have worked in smaller institutions, and what the alternatives are to designating a whole permanent space; perhaps theme days or terms would work just as well?

I am hoping to learn how to bring a makerspace to my library for a low/budgeted cost.

Knowing what grants are out there and available for libraries looking to create a Makerspace programs within their facilities is a great takeaway.

My library is currently home to a constantly-growing 3D print lab, and it is extremely popular. However, we have noticed that the vast majority of projects submitted are not designed by patrons, but downloaded from websites such as Thingiverse. As such, we are interested in programs,services, and general tips to encourage them to use the tools provided to learn and create something new, rather than replicate someone else's work. 

My goals are to learn about MakerSpaces and the evolving roles of (1) the library and (2) the librarian. My school library is still being used as a "traditional" place where students come to borrow books and have "lessons", but my principal and I know that we need to move the vision outside that box. 

I'm looking for ideas for creating programs or other ways for patrons to access and interact with our library's VR system. I'm especially interested in tween and teen users, and I'll take note of any information about these age groups and how they use Makerspaces. 

I would like to gain some insight on getting started in promoting makerspaces in all of our schools on a limited budget. I work with media coordinators in a 1:1 district and their roles are rapidly changing. I want information and ideas on what others are doing to make this transformation happen and showing evidence that it is an effective learning tool for schools.