Library Maker Space

Creativity, Technology, Research

After teaching art for 8 years, I was offered a position as a Library Media Specialist. I have always been passionate about implementing technology into my art room and also have my masters as a Reading Specialist. The opportunity to combine both of these degrees excited me.

In this role, I oversee renovations and have created an innovative library space that is the hub of the school. The updates were completed based off of a grant I was awarded through the Lower Moreland Foundation for Schools. The new library focuses on flexible seating, messy areas, filming areas, and technology space while keeping reading as the central focus. Students now walk in and are able to move to or create an area ideal for their learning.

As the Library Media Specialist, I teach students and teachers how to use the latest technologies and Maker Space activities. Incorporating my art background, many of the activities are art and creative focused, such as using 3D printing to create abstract sculptures, stamps, and pieces of clothing.

Coding

Coding is an essential skill and additional language all students need to learn. To ignite student learning, I use tools like BBC:Micro Bits, MakeyMakey, and CoDronePro to build student skills from block coding to Java.

3D Printing

We have three 3D printers, two that print PLA and one that prints using Flexistruder. This dual printing ability allows for students to make intricate designs that can be used for numerous things. A favorite lesson of mine is in collaboration with the art teacher. Together, we taught the students to use an online CAD program called Vectary, the students then created abstract sculptures, which otherwise could not be made, and printed them.

Hands-On Creating

Allowing students time to be creative and hands-on without looking at a screen, is very helpful in increasing creativity and student happiness, and decreasing stress. To increase these opportunities I offer bi-weekly maker activities that include sewing, vinyl cutter, button making, copper tape LED cards, and sticker making.

T-Shirt Fab Lab

Thanks to being awarded a Mini-Grant, I was able to add a t-shirt fabrication lab where students can see production from beginning to end. They start by working on the MAC's designing their work, use the vinyl cutter to cut our their design, then place the design onto a screen for ink printing.

Video Production

Thanks to the acquisition of a Mini-Grant, the library was able to purchase video production tools to help students with their video productions. For example, Osmo cellphone stabilizer, Shure microphones for voice recording and a large green screen with professional lighting. The tools are available for students to use in the library or to sign out and take home. I have provided instructions and guides on how to use the tools on the library website. You can view the website here.

Ceramics

I also teach a ceramics class. In this class students learn the basis of ceramics, an introduction to coil, slab, pinch and sculpting techniques. Students experiment using different textural techniques and learn all the foundational tools for working with clay.