A makerspace is coming to Hodges Library. What would you like to see included in the new work space?

Makerspaces provide tools and space where people with shared interests gather to work on projects while trading ideas and knowledge. There are makerspaces for arts and crafts, and makerspaces for rapid prototyping of new products, just to name a few scenarios. A makerspace may allow the novice to explore woodworking, metalworking, and electronics in the same workshop. CAD software, 3D printers, legos, lathes, laser cutters — any or all of these might be found in a makerspace.

What do you envision for the Libraries’ makerspace?

Ours won’t be the first makerspace on campus. The Innovation and Collaboration Studio hosted by the Tickle College of Engineering and the College of Architecture and Design’s downtown Fab Lab are already allowing students to turn their ideas into prototypes.

The great thing about a centrally-located makerspace open to all students is the opportunity for multidisciplinary collaboration. Bringing together students with different skill sets and differing perspectives – especially students who aren’t traditionally prompted to work in this type of space — can spark innovation.

We want your input as plans for a makerspace in Hodges Library take shape over the next year.

Explore. Tinker. Invent. Think big! Tell us your vision for a library makerspace.