A former school librarian helped create Library Makers, an online platform designed to connect librarians and educators who manage makerspaces or run maker events and programs.
Makerspaces teach students and patrons to solve problems, but frequently those running the spaces are often problem-solving themselves—in near-constant search of ideas, ways to use specific tools, creative options for limited space, or resources.
Enter Library Makers, a free online community of makers that aims to share ideas and offer support to all kinds of makerspaces, from the modest to elaborate in rural, tribal, and urban areas across the country.
The platform offers a toolkit, newsfeed, and chat for questions and collaboration, and various events, including webinars, on everything from grant writing to 3D printing. Ongoing series include Storytime Tinkering Book Club, which presents ideas and book suggestions for maker-related reading; STEAM Seekers, which helps bring STEAM concepts into programming; and Tool Talk, which discusses uses for one tool each session.
Librarians and educators can keep up with Library Makers on the go by downloading the app for iOS or Android devices.