Chicago Public Library

The state of the public library’s relevance in society is always a topic of interest as many public libraries across the country face budget cuts and closures. The library’s need has come into question due to the advancement of technology; information can be found with ease using Google and can be found instantaneously now that smartphones have become a ubiquitous part of a person’s life. However, technology does not mean the death of libraries but in fact an evolution. Libraries for years have adapted and experimented with the latest technology that provide ease and fits the needs for the community it serves. For example, the advent of the Internet changed the way librarians provided service to their users through online catalogs and library
Makerspaces help patrons by giving them a sense of community by collaborating on projects with other like-minded individuals. In a 2013 report, Chicago Public Library asserts the relation of makerspaces to the “Connected Learning Model” which describes the effect of a person able to participate in their interests with support from others leads to academic achievement, career success, or civic engagement (Hartnett 21). In addition, makerspaces promote active learning. Children and adolescents are attuned to different learning methods; some are visual or auditory learners, for example. The makerspace presents a place that promotes a different method of learning that could enable to think critically and improve their educational and social skills. Michael Prince, in his 2004 survey, finds “extensive empirical support for active learning” (Hartnett 21). Prince suggests that active learning leads to benefits in self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, improvement in students’ academics such as writing skills, and better problem-solving (Hartnett
Currently, many libraries are facing budget cuts and cannot afford or will not able to get funding for makerspaces. Equipment like a 3-D printer is an expensive investment which also includes staff training and maintenance (Anstice, 2012). Due to the cost, libraries should find cheaper alternatives for the equipment to be used in a makerspace. For example, tools like Cubelets or Squishy Circuits is affordable option to introduce children to robotics (Farkas 27). Libraries should also take into consideration if the community will be interested in participating before implementing a