Egbert, M. (2016). Creating makers : How to start a learning revolution at your library. ProQuest Ebook Central https://ebookcentral.proquest.com

Summary:

Makerspace materials have not typically been part of a library’s “collection”; however, programs that allow for the creation of various types of media are playing a vital role in attracting new patrons to the library. To utilize grant money for a library makerspace, the author approached its creation by studying human-centered design-thinking, that is, “what motivates makers, what  kind of learning takes place, and how can we help enhance their experience,” (Egbert, 2016, p. xiv).  She begins her book defining “makers” as separate from “crafters”--crafters are usually working in a solitary manner, focused on an end result, whereas makers are social innovators: collaborating, learning through mistakes, and gleaning new ideas from others. The goal of the makerspace should support the type of learning that leads to patrons taking risks and creating something entirely unique, or for a unique purpose. Through trial and error, the author realized that families are the most effective target audience to keep projects available to all ages and levels of expertise.  Older makers can support and encourage new ones, sharing their experience and most importantly, the maker mindset of learning by doing. In contrast to formal learning that expects a “correct” answer or result, makerspaces provide an informal learning environment that can lead to innovative thinking and empowered creators.  As stated in her title, they can start “a learning revolution at your library,” (Egbert, 2016).

Evaluation:

This book guides librarians to "dive deep" into the why of makerspace, before they begin rolling up their sleeves and spending money. Having a vision for the makerspace will help guide decisions about who will be reached, how they will be engaged, and the types of learning that will take place. If the library is to become a "learning commons," learning should be the cornerstone of all maker programs and expenditures.

Design Thinking for Libraries: A Process Model for Putting Patron Needs First

Van Halsema, Pamela

Citation:
Ideo. (2015). Design Thinking for Libraries: A Toolkit for Patron Centered Design. Retrieved May 1,        2017, from Design Thinking for Libraries website: http://www.designthinkingforlibraries.com

Summary:
The Design Thinking for Libraries publication describes a process that libraries can use to approach the design of space and services based on the needs of their patrons first and foremost.  This publication is part of a series from Ideo, and offshoot of the Stanford D School, which has made a name for itself in developing a process model for human centered design.  The process is largely centered on three steps: Inspiration, Ideation, and Iteration.  The publication provides an overview of the process, with case studies and explanations, and a practical toolkit which guides the librarian through the process at their own site.

Analysis:
I've been a fan of Design Thinking as a strong model for rethinking and refashioning systems to make them better from a user's perspective.  There is clearly lots of room for reflection on that idea in the library space, as so many times our systems can become the boss of our work, instead of a more empathetic approach to redesign our policies, procedures, programs and spaces to make the patron experience great.

Just like our inquiry learning process we teach in our libraries, the design thinking process begins with a question: How might we......??  (eg. How might we create user friendly web experiences that are on par with the 21st century digital landscape? or How might we create a welcoming ambiance in the library environment that encourages users to linger and stay?) Simply the fact that these questions and search for answers are conducted in a collaborative process that involves many stakeholders and most importantly some patrons, this approach to problem solving can be a powerful opportunity to get to know how others view the library and learn how to make it better.

Several possible solutions emerge in the process and quick experimental implementations, help reveal whether they are effective approaches.  Research, communication, visualization, and iteration are all important elements to finding the best answers to the 'How might we' question.

Along with empathy for the patron, the process involved humility for the librarian, and a willingness to listen, look, and respond to the experiences of the people who use the library.  Perhaps such an approach is what we need to reinvent ourselves and remain relevant in this shifting information landscape that threatens the very existence of libraries today.