Pop-Up Makerspace
Through a series of programs held once a month at the library, teen participants at Mission Viejo Library completed a STEM-themed craft project that encouraged creativity, independence, and self-guided learning. Through a series of craft programs, teens made greeting cards and holiday-themed houses using LEDs, created artwork using a robot built from household items, built flashlights using graphite, and made unique textile designs with sun-printing. Crafts were prepared ahead of the programs and teen volunteers put together kits from the supplies. Instruction handouts were included for those wishing to work independently, but library staff and volunteers were on hand to assist with the projects and showcase the science behind each activity. In addition to craft sessions, a “Tech Petting Zoo” allowed 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: Community members 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 project 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
Implementation
- Co-design your project with your community: Identify potential participants, focusing on reaching people not currently visiting the library, and gauge interest in the project. Meet with them to discuss the program. Engage them in envisioning the project, planning how to proceed, what activities will take place, and how community members will be invited and encouraged to attend.
- 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. - 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. - 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)
- Holiday House Pop Up Instructions (PDF)
- Pop-up Butterfly LED card, Pop-up Robot LED card (PDF)
- Paper Flashlight Instructions (PDF)
- 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