Maker Libraries: Public Libraries as Centers for Experiential Learning

Abstract

The traditional definition of a library is a place to collect and provide access to resources. In response to the 2008–2009 economic crisis, numerous state and city governments had to make hard budget choices. Some of those choices involved cutting the funding for human services departments, which include after school programs. Of those programs affected by budgetary cuts most fall into the category of experiential learning, a necessary inclusion in any child’s education. What is experiential learning? “In its most simple form, experiential learning is constructing knowledge and meaning from real life experience”. Maker culture, embraces all that the school budgeting issues reject with respect to experience and hands-on learning. As public libraries are already a not for profit venture, and as the majority of makerspaces are not for profit; libraries and makerspaces seem to be the perfect marriage.

Keywords: Makerspace, Public Library, Learning Commons, Experiential Learning

Cite this Article

Emily Thomson. Maker Libraries: Public Libraries as Centers for Experiential Learning. Journal of Advancements in Library Sciences. 2017; 4(1): 1–6p