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Greetings!
Have you thought about makerspaces in libraries? We are working on equipping one of our rooms into a future makerspace here at Monterey Public Library. It will have sewing machines, button makers, heat press, art supplies, hand tools, laser cutter, 3D printer, and more! Libraries across the country know that people have different learning styles, with some learning by reading, others by watching, or by doing (among other methods). Stay tuned for more info - but we plan to have programming in this space later this Fall.
But wait, aren't libraries supposed to be focused on books? I would counter that we are about information, learning, literacy, growth, and self-directed & community aspirations! Books are one of many tools that we use to inspire and learn; and just like a craftsman, we have to make sure the tools that we provide are well maintained and right for the job.
Have you heard of Harriet Eddy (1876-1966)? Harriet travelled up and down the state within ten years to form 40 (yes forty!) County Library systems. From there she became a Home Demonstration Agent to teach rural families about nutrition, sewing, cooking, canning, and more. Harriet's reach was far and wide as she travelled throughout California by building libraries and teaching basic skills to young women who then passed on skills to their family and community. If you haven't heard her name before you aren't alone; I first learnerd her story while reading her 1955 memoir County Free Library Organizing in California, 1909-1918.
So to me, California Libraries actually have a very long history of lending different items and teaching by doing. What kind of things do you want to learn by making in your Monterey Public Library? Let me know!
Warmly~
Brian
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