Makerspace and Collaborative Technologies - (Lita Guides) by Beth Thomsett-Scott (Paperback)

About the Book

This book explores how patrons are using innovative technologies utilizing real-life case studies from a variety of academic institutions. Discover which technologies they are using, how they are using them, and the purposes of use. Authors include best practices on designing ...

Book Synopsis

So, what are library patrons doing with makerspaces and other innovative technology? This book explores how patrons are using innovative technologies utilizing real-life case studies from a variety of academic institutions. Authors were selected based on the technology provided and their expertise in establishing and marketing this technology. Readers will discover:

which pieces of technology get the most useif patrons tend to use the tech for class assignments or leisure activitiesthe importance of working with faculty to increase useunusual collaboration opportunitiesexamples of libraries nimbly expanding their spaces to include tech students needunique ways patrons employ the technologybest practices for designing collaborative creative spaces

Technologies discussed include:

Microsoft Hololensvirtual reality and augmented reality systems and support tools3D modeling and printingmakerspace additions beyond the usualinstructional technologies used by patronsvideo production and editing equipmenttool librarytechnology lending programs (what students want!)
Dive in to explore the uncharted seas of which technologies patrons are using, how they are using them, and the purposes of use. As added bonuses, authors include best practices on designing space, marketing the technology, and collaborating to enhance the use. While authors do not go into any depth on the workings of the technology, there are other supplementary books which will cover this area. Makerspace and Collaborative Technologies specifically looks at how and why patrons are using library-provided creative technologies. Library staff who work with creative technologies in any way, shape, or form will find this book useful. With the valuable information contained in this guide, libraries can reach their users and create spaces and interactions that keep them coming back.

Review Quotes

"This book is like a time machine -- it shows us the future while examining the history of today's cutting-edge products and the growing pains that came from early adopters who were brave enough to bring them into academia in an era when most patrons expected libraries to be little more than silent study spaces. The lesson: we learn best when we play." --Jenn Carson, Library Director and author of Get You Community Moving: Physical Literacy Programs for All Ages (ALA Editions, 2018) and Yoga and Meditation at the Library: A Practical Guide for Librarians (Rowman & Littlefield, 2019).

"An amazing overview of the possibility's libraries can explore when it comes to Makerspaces. Use cases demonstrate various technologies, and authors don't shy away from sharing the challenges involved with their spaces. This guide provides valuable information and demonstrates how libraries are embracing technology and enabling alternate means of accessing and creating information." --Jennifer Herron, librarian, Michigan Department of Transportation Library, author - 3D Printing in Medical Libraries A Crash Course in Supporting Innovation in Health Care

"Makerspace and Collaborative Technologies: A LITA Guide offers readers informative case study based glimpses into how featured libraries and their makerspace cutting edge technologies are engaging their institutions through innovative practices and creative programming. This a wonderful resource for anyone looking to learn more about how makerspaces are impacting higher education settings." --Lynn D. Lampert, Librarian & Coordinator of Instruction, California State University Northridge

"This book would be most beneficial to libraries who are either looking to start technology-centered services, or those who are looking to expand their offerings. A great resource for a library that is undecided on the type of technology resources to offer because it examines a number of different technologies currently being used in libraries. While the book is focused on academic libraries, the breadth of technologies covered make it applicable for any type of library." --Technical Services Quarterly

About the Author

Beth Thomsett-Scott is the Head of the Engineering Library at Penn State. She is the liaison to the College of Engineering and consults with faculty, staff, and students to ensure their needs are meet through services, instructing, and collections. Beth has published in a variety of journals and presented conference sessions in the areas of website usability, mentoring and training reference staff and students, and technology. Her passion is supporting students and faculty in their education and research activities.