Have you been hearing the terms in the above graphic being bandied around your library lately? If so you are not alone. These are all different types of collaborative technology spaces. One of these spaces may be popping up at a library near you! Join me as we explore the basics.
My first introduction to this concept was at West Chester University, where I work in the FHG Library. During a space planning visit by Aaron Cohen Associates it was suggested that the library look into converting an existing space to a "MakerSpace." I had no idea what this was and, being the ever-so-diligent library tech, I went researching. The terminology pictured above were the most commonly used to describe collaborative technology spaces in my search results.
What do all of these spaces have in common?
- Increased access to technology
- A place for exploration and creativity
- A place to work collaboratively and solve problems or brainstorm
- Tables set up for group work - typically furniture is re-configurable
- A white board or chalk board
Now that we've looked at the commonalities let's look at what makes them unique!
MakerSpaces - AKA Hackerspaces & FabLabs
The maker movement didn't begin in libraries but the libraries are quickly adopting the maker movement.
Focus:
Focus:
- Hands-on exploration
- Transference of a skill from someone who is knowledgeable to one who is seeking knowledge.
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H.Y.P.E. Makerspace at the Detroit Public Library
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Typical Equipment:
- Handheld power tools
- Sewing machines
- 3D printers
- Robotics
- Hand tools
- Art/crafting materials
Learning Commons - AKA Education Commons
Focus: Student learning - empowerment, growth, improved critical thinking
(Loertscher, Koechlin, Zwaan, & Rosenfeld, 2011)
a
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| University of Iowa Learning Commons |
Typical Equipment:
- Large displays at group stations
- Access to specialized software
- SMART boards
- Laptops or tablets
This type of learning environment can be useful when employing a flipped classroom model (Karasic & Barry, 2014).
Media Commons - AKA Digital Media Lab
Focus: multimedia accessibility for all students
Mestre (2013) defines the Media Commons as
a"vibrant collaborative technology space, and a robust loanable technology and consulting program that provides students, staff and faculty an opportunity to explore, learn and produce dynamic multimedia projects." (p. 671)
Typical Equipment:
Mestre (2013) defines the Media Commons as
a"vibrant collaborative technology space, and a robust loanable technology and consulting program that provides students, staff and faculty an opportunity to explore, learn and produce dynamic multimedia projects." (p. 671)
Typical Equipment:
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| Skokie Public Library |
- Space that is sound resistant for recording
- Visual
- cameras
- video cameras
- large screen monitors
- wall painted green
- Sound equipment
- microphones
University of Penn Libraries, Vitale Digital Media Lab - recorders
- sound absorbing materials on walls
- Cords to connect personal devices to library equipment
- Computers with specialized software
Benefits of Collaboration
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Explore further on your own...
- The editors of American Libraries magazine have a very useful article called Manufacturing Makerspaces that expands upon what I have started here.
- 3D Printing & FabLabs - Fascinating exploration of the future of 3D printers
References
Britton, L. (2012, October 1). The makings of maker: Making space
for creation, not just consumption. Library Journal, 137(16), 20-23.
Karasic, V.M., Barry, S. (2014, September). From commons to classroom:
Evolving learning spaces in academic libraries Presented at the PaLA 2014 Annual
Conference Lancaster, PA.
Loertscher, D. V., Koechlin, C., Zwaan, S., & Rosenfeld, E.
(2011). The new learning commons: Where learners win! Salt
Lake City: Hi Willow Research & Publishing.
Mestre, L.S. (2013). Media commons: The process and value of
centralizing services. Library
Hi Tech, 31(4), 669-687.
Wong, T. (2013, May/June). Makerspaces take libraries by storm. Library Media Connection, 31(6), 34-35.
I really enjoyed your post, Kim. I am incredibly fascinated by the idea of a MakerSpace within libraries, as they truly foster creation and innovation. When I heard recently that a library my friend works at was getting a 3D printer, my first reaction was disbelief! It seems like something from the future, and yet they are becoming more common and more accessible. I like the idea of putting production capabilities within the hands of the people, and it seems like a great resource to encourage patrons to be participate and be creative. Overall the idea of a MakerSpace may be what helps keep libraries relevant in the future.
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