Pop-up Makerspace

• LSTA Grant #40-8714
• Original Application, Final Narrative
• Mission Viejo Library
• Allen Kesinger, Teen Services Librarian
• Maximum funding (CopyCat grant): $8,000

Description: Through a series of programs held once a month at the library, teen participants complete a STEM-themed craft project that encourages creativity, independence, and self-guided learning. Through a series of craft programs, teens make greeting cards and holiday-themed houses using LEDs, create artwork using a robot built from household items, build flashlights using graphite, and make unique textile designs with sun-printing. Crafts are prepared ahead of the programs and teen volunteers are used to put together kits from the supplies. Instruction handouts are included for those wishing to work independently, but library staff and volunteers are on hand to assist with the projects and showcase the science behind each activity. In addition to craft sessions, a "Tech Petting Zoo" allow teens to experiment with circuits using LittleBits, use TinkerCAD to create 3D models and print them out with a 3D printer, and experience virtual reality with virtual reality headsets..

Purpose: Parents surveyed in Mission Viejo requested the city provide safe, healthy, educational activities for teens that enable them to practice life skills and harness their creativity. The Pop-up Makerspace program was designed to meet this unmet need in the community.

Target Audience: While the original grant targeted children age 13-17 Mission Viejo Library (MVL) encountered middle school students also interested in and participating in the program. With a little more hands-on help from library staff and volunteers, they were able to participate and learn as well.

Expected Outcomes: Participants will report increased interest in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Venue: MVL conducted programming in a room in the library. When they tried a different room off-sight, they had less attendance, as teens weren't as likely to leave the library to attend. This program is easily portable to community fairs or schools if space is available. Room for multiple participants to spread out their materials, surfaces upon which to work, and adequate lighting are necessary. Kits can be taken home as well.

Budget Considerations

• Makerbot Replicator
• Replicator supplies
• Project supplies
• Virtual reality headsets and batteries
• Marketing supplies

See original application for more detail and in-kind staff estimates.

Implementation

• Schedule craft sessions and Tech Petting Zoo (once a month, every other weekend, etc.)
• Purchase materials Links to crafts include supply lists, vendor and cost information.
  • ArtBot Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
  • Holiday Cabin Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
  • LED Greeting Card Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
  • Paper Flashlight Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
  • LED Throwies Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
  • Sunprinting Materials and Program Tips (pdf format)
• Purchase equipment Makerbot Replicator+ and supplies, LittleBits, and VR headsets, such as Oculus Rift (used by MVL), Oculus Go, or HTC Vive
• Upload software and train staff on equipment TinkerCad is free software teens can use to design their 3D object. Make time to learn how the 3D printer, LittleBits, and virtual reality headsets work to best work with teens during the program.
• Publicize the program via library website, with local schools, social media. Examples: Pop-up Event Flyers, Teen MakerSpace Tech Petting Zoo (both pdf format), Mission Viejo Local News page. Visit our general information page on marketing for additional tips.
• Troubleshoot Before each program, library staff and any volunteers assisting participants should do a dry run and create each item. This enables a better experience for participants, as their guides understand the process and can anticipate areas where more assistance may be needed. Using the program tips provided by MVL, become familiar with the eccentricities of each craft to avoid mistakes and keep participants safe.
• Assemble kits including instruction sheet and supplies needed for each participant - this is a good project for teen volunteers
  • Art Bot instructions (pdf format)
  • Holiday House Pop Up Instructions (pdf format)
  • Pop-up Butterfly LED card, Pop-up Robot LED card (pdf format)
  • Paper Flashlight Instructions (pdf format)
  • LED Throwies (no instructions needed, simple and guided by librarian)
  • Sunprinting (no instructions, participants do steps with librarian)
• For Tech Petting Zoo make sure all equipment and supplies are working, batteries charged, etc. Find tips here: Teen MakerSpace Tech Petting Zoo