Awareness about the Makerspace among Library Professional in Working in Engineering colleges of Navi Mumbai

  • Ajay Vitthal Sable Librarian, Late Khatija College of Education, Thane, Mumbai, India.
  • Suraj Chandrapal Maddye Librarian, Guru Nanak Vidyak Society’s Law, Mumbai, India.

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the awareness of makerspaces and to identify makerspaces available in Navi Mumbai engineering college libraries. In recent times, libraries are not a place to just sit and study and refer to books. Rather, the activities of libraries have increased dramatically. In today’s generation, the users need to interact more, create, and collaborate, so accordingly the libraries should provide services to their users. Makerspace is one of the latest trends in libraries, and users expect libraries to provide the modern services to them. The idea of a makerspace is to promote creativity and inventions. The goal of makerspaces is to reduce barriers so that people can learn and start creating their resources and collections. If we build such a makerspace in libraries, then it will provide financial support to the libraries as well as help to increase the number of visitors in the library.

Author Biography

Suraj Chandrapal Maddye, Librarian, Guru Nanak Vidyak Society’s Law, Mumbai, India.

Awareness about the Makerspace among Library Professional in Working in Engineering colleges of Navi Mumbai

Ajay Vitthal Sable.

 

Librarian, Late Khatija College of Education, Thane Suraj C. Maddye

Librarian, Guru nank Vidyak Society’s Law, Mumbai

 

Abstract

 

The main aim of paper is to investigate the awareness of makerspce and to identify makerspace available in in Navi Mumbai engineering college library recent times, Libraries are not a place to just sit and study and refer books. Rather the activities of libraries have increase dramatically. In today’s generation the users need to interact more, create and collaborate, so accordingly the libraries should provide services to its users. makerspace is one of the latest trends in the libraries and users expect libraries to provide the modern services to them. The idea of makerspace is to promote the creativity and inventions. The goal of makerspaces aims at reducing barriers so, that people can learn and start creating their resources and collections. If we build such makerspace in libraries then it will provide financial support to the libraries as well as it will help to increase the number of Visitors in the library.

Keywords: Makerspace, Hub, Community, Skill, Research Introduction

Makerspace is place where students can come together to create or invent new things, with the help of crafting and technology. Makerspace in libraries is about making. Makerspace is a room that contains tools and components allowing students to enter with an idea and leave with a complete project. Makerspace is collaboration of learning for students and they find the knowledge themselves. It is an informal place where young people to share their ideas and get inspired themselves by learning to use tools and materials in both physical and virtual space. In makerspace students or end users are involved in the design or planning process. Makerspace in libraries involve structure that undergirds the free-flowing creative spirit that each maker brings into the space. With the help of makerspace Librarians will get a chance to learn how to research,

 

seek input, plan, and keep developing a makerspace. Libraries today are no longer just places for storing books; they have evolved into dynamic, creative, and collaborative learning environments designed to spark innovation and knowledge creation in the digital age. The primary goal of a library makerspace is to promote lifelong learning and community involvement through programs that appeal to diverse audiences, catering to a wide range of interests, from entertainment to education, and for all age groups.

 

Over the past few years, makerspaces have gained significant popularity in academic libraries. These spaces are equipped with advanced technologies such as 3D printers, virtual reality headsets, milling machines, gaming software, rendering tools, sewing machines, and various electronics. Makerspaces not only encourage students to collaborate in teams, but they also enable educators to plan and implement hands-on projects that align with academic objectives.

A makerspace is a resource hub for educators and creators, aimed at inspiring young people to engage in projects related to art, craft, engineering, design, mathematics, music, science, technology, and more. It provides children with access to real tools and materials to help them bring their ideas to life. The objective is to inspire and empower young minds to think critically, design solutions, experiment, and create through activities like workshops, seminars, and after- school programs. Makerspaces are also known as hackerspaces or FabLabs.

These spaces highlight the importance of integrating knowledge from various academic disciplines to solve complex problems, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration. Makerspaces aim to eliminate barriers to learning and encourage individuals to start creating their own resources and collections. By combining the right tools with a supportive culture, makerspaces provide a powerful catalyst for both formal and informal self-sustaining learning environments that promote creativity and foster collaboration.

Makerspace can be classified into four different categories are as follows.

  1. Industrial/Technical Makerspace;

 

  1. Commercial Makerspace;

 

  1. Educational Makerspace;

 

  1. Community/Library Makerspace;

 

  1. Hub/Network Makerspace

Definitions

Makerspace:

 

“A place where people can come together to create or invent things, either using traditional crafts or technology.” - Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus.

“A place in which people with shared interests, especially in computing or technology, can gather to work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment, and knowledge.”

Oxford dictionaries.

“A makerspace is a community center that provides technology, manufacturing equipment and educational opportunities to the public.” – Margaret Rouse.

  1. Library makerspace:

 

“A makerspace is an area in a library where users can use tools and equipment to design, build, and create all sorts of different things. It may be a dedicated room or a multipurpose space in which a collection of raw materials and resources can be utilized as desired. Projects range from prototyping product designs with 3D printers, to programming robots, to creating art out of recycled items.” – John Burke

 

Benefits of makerspace

Makerspaces provide the place and means to carry out different types of projects, either collaboratively or autonomously, they can be invaluable resources to students and learners of all ages. Makerspaces come equipped with many benefits for “makers” and their communities.

Hands-on

Hands-on training offers practical experiences that make concepts easier to grasp. For many people, learning through direct interaction and practice is more effective than passive listening in a classroom setting, which can often lead to disengagement. This type of training enhances productivity, as learners are actively engaged in tasks while gaining new skills. Additionally, it boosts confidence by providing trainees with immediate access to a trainer for clarification or support when needed.

Community building

Makerspaces foster collaborative environments where diverse individuals can come together to learn from each other and exchange ideas. Makers draw inspiration from their communities, developing tools and projects that address local needs, while the community, in turn, supports

 

makers by utilizing and sharing these creations. Since anyone has the potential to be a maker, these spaces enable communities to grow collectively, with continuous knowledge sharing and mutual support.

Skill building

Makerspaces provide users with more than just technical skills; they also offer opportunities to develop collaboration, autonomy, communication, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking abilities. Students can explore potential career paths, enhance soft skills, and apply their knowledge to solve real-world challenges.

Accessible

Makerspaces focus on fostering community engagement and knowledge sharing, making them generally accessible to the public, which promotes lifelong learning. School-based makerspaces, however, are usually restricted to student use. In many makerspaces, experienced makers are available to assist beginners, ensuring that both novice and experienced users can confidently access and utilize the equipment.

Exploratory

Makerspaces provide students with the chance to explore concepts in greater depth beyond what is taught in the classroom, as well as to investigate subjects not typically covered in traditional curricula. These spaces offer valuable opportunities for learners of all ages to discover their passions, develop new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their interests, and the world they live in.

Relaxing and reflecting

Humans have an inherent need to create and engage both their minds and bodies. In the hustle of daily life, it's easy to forget that engaging in creative activities without pressure can be a therapeutic way to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate both mentally and physically.

Maker Space has a collection of hand and power tools to aid in building your projects. Some of them are:

  • Saws (Hack, pipe, hand)
  • Chisels
  • Screw-drivers
  • Wrenches
  • Files
  • Ratchets and sockets
  • Clamps and vices and many

 

Services provided by library makerspace

 

  • Workshop/seminar/conference
  • Book exhibition
  • Orientation programs
  • Online tutorial/training
  • MakerBot’s and mashup Need
  • and Purpose of This Paper

There is a need to understand use of makerspaces in the libraries. It is a new concept and it is difficult to implement in a library. There is need to improve the quality of study by involving the practical knowledge of students. For ease of understanding in study. The purpose is to find awareness of makerspace in Engineering college libraries. Identify makerspace available in libraries. Find what technology they are using in makerspace library. Find out how they are using makerspace in library.

Literature Review

 

Accart, jean-Philippe (2013) An article dedicated to the latest trends in information technologies highlights how libraries are evolving beyond their traditional roles. Librarians no longer merely decide what resources to acquire and lend; instead, they facilitate a wide range of activities and provide access to resources. The focus has shifted from simply offering materials to promoting a "do it yourself" philosophy. This shift encourages collaborative learning through workshops, both on-site and online, often culminating in digital creations. Public libraries now offer safe, inclusive spaces where community members can engage with and learn from the technologies available. Makerspaces, in particular, give students and educators the chance to participate in hands-on learning and creation, fostering a participatory approach to education.

Brandy, Tara (2014) Describe the planning and execution of an accessible library makerspace event for people with disabilities specifically, patrons with cognitive and visual impairments. It also describes the design of the makerspace event at a local public library was centered around creating an inclusive environment for individuals with cognitive and visual impairments. The event aimed to offer a hands-on, engaging experience that allowed all participants to interact with tools and materials in a meaningful way. The implementation of this event, they provide suggestions for creating accessible makerspace events in libraries.

 

Burke, john (2015) The Library makerspace can offer wide range of activities to engage makers. Patrons will learn the practical skills of bringing a product into being and be inspired to learn more. Libraries serves a variety of purposes maintainer of local information sources, community meeting space, study zone and connectors of user and information of all kinds. Libraries have changed their spaces to accommodate uses beyond physical item storage. These libraries are engaged in the work of sharing making technologies and activities with their communities.

Cun, Aijuan (2018) discuss on how maker culture has led to an increase of makerspces around the United States across a variety of educational organization when makerspace introduced in public libraries library patrons have new opportunities to learn and create through cutting edge tolls such as virtual reality and 3D printers. It was examined user and librarian use of makerspace through a theoretical framework based on modern assessment research.

Dixon, Nicole and Ward, Michael (2014) The Author discuss library was doing maker-style programming but after the coffee shop meeting, the library became more intentional in its efforts to provide these kinds of hands-on learning opportunity for teen audience. Author creating maker movement at the Louisville free public library started small pager motor, watch battery and head of a toothbrush this will inspire patrons to explore new skills that could became a personally satisfying hobby or even a highly desired job skill. Author finds that library is not just book depositary it is more than that.

Groenendyk, and Gallanat (2013) states their pilot project at the Dalhousie University Libraries. Author discusses Here’s a revised version of the text with improved originality and clarity The acquisition of 3D printers and scanners, along with the challenges involved in maintaining and operating these technologies, is explored through a pilot project at Dalhousie University. The focus is on staff training and the implementation of 3D printing services within the library. One of the main obstacles identified was the lack of familiarity among patrons, including students and faculty, with 3D printing. Many users faced difficulties in understanding the design requirements for this type of printing. The author emphasizes that without proper training and guidance, users' inexperience could significantly limit the effectiveness and utilization of the 3D printers and scanners at Dalhousie.This version captures the same key ideas but uses different phrasing and structure to make it more original. Let me know if you need further adjustments!

Havens Anton (2010) Discuss the impact of assessment on learning in a wider sense, by focusing on how assessment drives not only student learning but also teaching practices. The article explores

 

the impact of assessment on education from a systemic perspective, examining how assessments influence learning at a broader, system-wide level.

Julian, Kristi, D., and Parrot, Deborah J. (2017) The maker movement offers a unique opportunity to transform libraries into dynamic learning environments that empower students to engage in research, design, creation, collaboration, and problem-solving. This article explores how students, administrators, and librarians work together to develop makerspaces where learners can design projects, create products, and participate in hands-on activities. With creativity and a willingness to experiment, educators can establish makerspaces, regardless of budget, and foster an innovative, learning-focused community.

Koh, K. and Abbas, June (2015) Discuss competencies for information professionals in makerspaces now-a –days Libraries and museums providing transformative learning paces often called learning Labs and makerspaces. This place helps patrons to explore invent traditional and digital media interact with mentor and peer and engaged in creative projects. The author examined the key competencies necessary for professionals working in library and museum learning environments. They identified essential skills such as the ability to learn continuously, adapt to new situations, and serve diverse populations. Additionally, the study highlighted the importance of higher education in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for success in these roles.

Moorefield, Lange and Heather, Michele (2015) Describe the implantation of mobile makerspaces in libraries and educational settings and its challenges. Mobile makerspaces offer opportunities for exploration, innovation, and collaboration, allowing patrons and students to engage in creative activities wherever they are. This model expands the role of libraries and schools beyond their physical locations. While makerspaces can be set up permanently, moved within a building, or even taken on the road, demand for these spaces can be challenging to meet. Additional obstacles arise depending on the mode of transportation, often requiring significant funding. Ultimately, mobile makerspaces represent a fresh approach to the creative process and how it can be facilitated.

 

Okpala, Helen (2016) Author highlighted the concept of makerspace and its benefits in academic libraries in Nigeria. A makerspace serves as a platform for encouraging students to explore, experiment, and learn outside the traditional classroom setting and away from the constraints of

 

formal assignments. Libraries, by supporting teaching, learning, and research, also provide an environment that fosters innovation and creativity. Establishing a makerspace can help build a collaborative community, introduce new technologies, and enhance the overall reputation of the library.

Pryor, Steven (2014) In 21st century Makerspace and new technology are currently the subject of much discussion in the library world, especially in Academic and public libraries. Libraries offer resources not only for accessing information but also for creating new knowledge and conducting research. The author discusses the 3D printing service introduced at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, outlining the rationale behind offering this service in an academic library. The paper also details the equipment selection process, the procedures and workflow involved, and the service's evolution and success up to the present.

Sheikh, Arslan (2015) The explosion of knowledge resulted in changing the concept of traditional use for libraries as now they are perceived by the users as spaces of collaborative learning. The whole scenario has forced librarians to transform into information commons. Libraries in developed countries have moved to employ its advance type that is learning. This study examines the state of information commons in university libraries across Pakistan. It investigates the objectives behind establishing these commons and identifies the challenges faced by library professionals in managing them.

Wong, Anne and partridge, Helen (2016) Makerspaces are more than just places to make things, makerspace is physical location Makerspaces provide students and staff with opportunities to learn, collaborate, explore new ideas, and engage in creative activities using technology. The author explores the experience of Australian universities with makerspaces, noting that out of the 43 university websites studied, only 12 reported having makerspaces, with three universities offering them on two campuses. Despite this, the adoption of makerspaces in higher education is expected to grow over the next three to four years.

Aim

To create awareness about of makerspace among library professionals and to identify whether makerspace is available or not.

Objective

Following is the objective of the study;

  1. To find out awareness of makerspace in college

 

  1. To identify makerspace available in

 

  1. To find what technology they are using in makerspace

 

  1. To find out how they are using makerspace in

 

Research Methodology

In keeping with the aim of the study the researcher was carried out in

  1. Survey
  2. Interview

Sample size

The sample size was taken by this study is 20 colleges of Navi Mumbai. Due to less number of engineering colleges in Navi Mumbai therefore I have covered Thane and Sion area colleges.

Data Analysis

 

  1. Have you heard about the makerspace?

 

 

Table 1: Heard about the makerspaces

 

Options

Response

Percentage %

No

5

25%

I have heard about makersapce but did not know how it is implemented

11

55%

I know about makerspace and I have implemented it in my library

1

5%

Yes. I know about the makerspaces and I have also visited libraries implementing makerspaces.

3

15%

Total

20

100%

 

Figure 1.1: Bar chart How many librarians are heard about Maker- spaces

 

 

In above bar chart 20 out of 5 librarians not heard about makerspace concept, 11 librarian heard about maker-space concept but they don’t know how it is implement in library. There are only 1 librarian know about Maker-space and they have makerspace in their own library and 3 librarians know about the Maker -space and they also visited libraries implementing Maker-space.

  1. According to You what Is A makerspace

Table no. 4.2 According to you what is makerspace

 

Options

Response

Percentage %

A place where people can come together to create or invent things

traditional crafts

 

5

 

21%

Makerspace is community center that provides technology manufacturing equipment    and    Educational

opportunities to the students.

 

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

37%

A     collaborative     workshop     that

supplies equipment and technology as  3D  printers,  soldering  Tools,

 

5

21%

 

industrial sewing machine etc. for

creative project

 

5

 

21%

All of these

5

21%

Total

24

100%

     

 

Figure 2.2: Bar chart According to librarians what is makerspace ?

It was found that there are 5 librarian says that makerspace is a place where people can come together to create or invent things traditional crafts, 9 librarian says that makerspace is community center that provides technology manufacturing equipment and Educational opportunities to the students, 5 librarian says that makerspace is collaborative workshop that supplies equipment and technology as 3D printers, soldering Tools, industrial sewing machine etc. for creative project and 5 librarian agreed all the options listed.

  1. Management of makerspaces requires?

Table no. 4.6 for managing the makerspace requires

 

Options

Response

Percentage %

Specialized staff

4

18%

Technical staff

10

45%

Library staff

1

5%

All of the above

7

32%

Total

22

100%

 

 

It was found that 18% of librarian says that managing of makerspace requires specialized staff, 45% of librarian says that makerspace require technical staff members. There are only 5% of librarian says that makerspace require library staff and 32% of librarian agreed all the options listed.

 

Conclusion

The findings from the study reveal that, 25% of librarians are not aware about the makerspace concept so, with the help of concept of makerspace as a part of study the researcher helps them to create awareness about the makerspace innovative ideas, which many of the librarians would like to, adopt and try to implement in the library. and , 55% librarian are aware but they don’t know how to implement, 15% of librarian are visited and know about the makerspace but they are not able to implement because inadequate space, lack of funding etc. and 5% of librarian are aware about the makerspace and they had implemented successfully in their college.

Researcher has investigated that out of 20 libraries only 1 Pillai's library has successfully implemented the makerspace concept in their library. The Pillai's library has well equipped room of for the purpose of makerspace. It was also found that students use the makerspace room for project purpose and for experimenting their studies. 4% respondents feel that laser cutter is one of technological tool to be used in makerspace, 14% feel that 3D printer is essential tool, 10% feel that CNC router is necessary, 21% computer workstations are the most important tool, 3% feel

 

laptop should also be provided 45% of respondents feel that all the above tools are very essential for concept of makerspace while 3% feel that none of the tools can be beneficial for use in makerspace. Thus it shows that the makerspace room should be well equipped with all technological tools as it is room for innovation and to explore our creativity.

 

 

 

Recommendation

  • The concept of placing a makerspace within a library goes beyond simply attracting users; it aims to foster creativity, invention, and hands-on learning.
  • When proposing a makerspace in an academic library, it is important to reference existing makerspaces in other libraries and highlight their success Additionally, suggesting visits to libraries with established makerspaces can provide valuable insights.
  • There should be opportunities for training and workshops for librarians on makerspace management and Demonstrating the benefits of such spaces can help in crafting a compelling proposal to university administration, which is likely to result in positive outcomes.
  • Engineering libraries, in particular, would benefit from a makerspace as it would promote collaboration, introduce new technologies, and enhance the library’s reputation. Gaining support from university administration will be essential to the success of this initiative.
  • The makerspace concept can also be adapted and implemented in various geographical regions, expanding its reach and impact.
  • Makerspaces are not limited to college libraries; they can be introduced in schools and other organizations to foster creativity and experimentation across different fields.

 

References:

  • Accart, Jean-Philippee (2013). “Hot off the press! Fabs Labs and Libraries,’’ Library Hi Tech News, 30(7). http://doi.org/10.1108/1htn.2013.23930gaa.001
  • Brandy, Tara (2014). Make Ability: Creating Accessible Makerspace Events in a public Library,

Public Library Quarterly, 33( 4) 330-347

 

Education Technology- products and services, Access on 10th March 2020 http://edutechnindia.com

  • Groenedyk, and Gallant, R (2013) 3D printing and scanning at the dalhousie University Libraries: a pilot project, Library Hi Tech 31 (1) 31-41
  • Havens, Anton (2004). Examination and learning: an Activity theoretical analysis of the relationship between assessment and educational practice, Assessment and Evaluation in higher Education 29(2). doI.org. /10.1080/0260293042000188456
  • Julian, Kristi, D. (2017). Makerspaces in the Llibrary: Science in a student’s Hands, Journal of Learning spaces 6(2),             ISSN            21586195             Retrieved            from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1152687.pdf

Koh, K. & Abbas, J. (2015). Competencies for information professionals in learning labs and makerspaces. Journal of Library Information Science, 56(2), 114-129

 


  • Pryor, Steven (2014). "Implementing a 3D Printing Service in an Academic Library" Library and Information Services Faculty Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity Retrieved from http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/01930826.2014.893110
  • Sheikh, Arslan (2015). Development of information commons in university libraries of Pakistan: the current scenario The journal of academic Librarianship, 41(2) 130-139. org/10.1016/j.acalib.2015.01.002
  • Wong, Anne, Partridge, Helen (2016). Making as Learning: Makerspaces in Australian Universities, Academic    and    Research    Libraries,    47:3,    143-

doi:10.1080/00048623.2016.1228163

References

1. Makerspaces [Internet]. Makerspace Directory - Building Communities One Maker at a Time; 2024 May 21 [Cited 2024 June 24]. https://makerspace.com/.
2. Au R, Tomotaro Godai, Smith L. Maker Education: How Makerspaces Can Change How Students Interact With Technology. Foundations of Educational Technology; 2020 Dec 7 [Cited 2024 Mar 27]. https://educ3582020.
pubpub.org/pub/makereducation/release/1.
3. Makerspace. Edutech India; 2023 May 29 [Cited 2024 Jan 16]. https://edutechindia.com/makerspace/.
4. Brady T, Salas C, Nuriddin A, Rodgers W, Subramaniam M. MakeAbility: Creating accessible makerspace events
in a public library. Public Library Quarterly. 2014 Oct 2;33(4):330-47.
5. Accart, Jean-Philippee (2013). “Hot off the press! Fabs Labs and Libraries,’’ Library Hi Tech News, 30(7). http://
doi.org/10.1108/1htn.2013.23930gaa.001.
6. Brady T, Salas C, Nuriddin A, Rodgers W, Subramaniam M. MakeAbility: Creating accessible makerspace events
in a public library. Public Library Quarterly. 2014 Oct 2;33(4):330-47.
7. Burke J. Making Sense: Can Makerspaces Work in Academic Libraries? Alaorg; 2015 [Cited 2024 Arp 13].
https://alair.ala.org/items/d8e21370-e9bb-4866-a7c2- 848997601f0c.
8. Cun A, Abramovich S. The challenge of assessment for library Makerspaces. Proceedings of the Association for
Information Science and Technology. 2018;55(1):781-2.
9. Dixon N, Ward M, Phetteplace E. The maker movement and the Louisville free public library. Reference and
User Services Quarterly. 2014 Sep 1;54(1):17-9.
10. Groenendyk M, Gallant R. 3D printing and scanning at the Dalhousie University Libraries: a pilot project. Library Hi Tech. 2013 Mar 1;31(1):34-41.
11. Havnes* A. Examination and learning: an activitytheoretical analysis of the relationship between assessment and educational practice. Assessment & Evaluation in Higher Education. 2004 Apr 1;29(2):159- 76.
12. Julian KD, Parrott DJ. Makerspaces in the Library: Science in a Student’s Hands. Journal of Learning Spaces. 2017 Jun 16;6(2).
13. Koh K, Abbas J. Competencies for information professionals in learning labs and makerspaces. Journal of Education for Library and Information Science. 2015 Apr;56(2):114-29.
14. Moorefield-Lang HM. When makerspaces go mobile: Case studies of transportable maker locations. Library
Hi Tech. 2015 Nov 16;33(4):462-71.
15. Okpala HN. Making a makerspace case for academic libraries in Nigeria. New library world. 2016 Oct 10;117(9/10):568-86.
16. Pryor S. Implementing a 3D printing service in an academic library. Journal of Library Administration. 2014 Jan 1;54(1):1-0.
17. Sheikh A. Development of information commons in university libraries of Pakistan: The current scenario.
The Journal of Academic Librarianship. 2015 Mar 1;41(2):130-9.
18. Wong A, Partridge H. Making as learning: Makerspaces in universities. Australian Academic & Research
Libraries. 2016 Jul 2;47(3):143-59.
Published
2025-01-30
How to Cite
SABLE, Ajay Vitthal; MADDYE, Suraj Chandrapal. Awareness about the Makerspace among Library Professional in Working in Engineering colleges of Navi Mumbai. Journal of Advanced Research in Library and Information Science, [S.l.], v. 11, n. 4, p. 17-24, jan. 2025. ISSN 2395-2288. Available at: <http://thejournalshouse.com/index.php/Journal-Library-InformationScien/article/view/1345>. Date accessed: 02 feb. 2025.