Staffing, Safety, Space, and Grants: The Four S’s That Make (or Break) Your Library Makerspace If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a makerspace in your library but felt overwhelmed by the logistics, you’re not alone. Every ambitious idea comes face-to-face with four very real constraints: Staffing, Safety, Space Limitations, and Grant Writing . Let’s talk about each—plainly, realistically—and how you can navigate them without burning out or breaking your budget. 1. Staffing: Who Will Run the Thing? The truth is, most libraries don’t have a full-time Makerspace Coordinator on standby. And that’s okay. Start small. Look at who’s already on your team—do you have someone crafty, techy, or just game to experiment? Ask around: parents, teens, or retirees may be eager to volunteer once a month. A great makerspace isn’t about having experts; it’s about nurturing curiosity and safe experimentation. 2. Safety: Fun Shouldn’t Be Hazardous Scissors, soldering irons, hot glue... things can go sidewa...
An Ilokana Librarian Who Writes