Towards Digital Literacy - Makerspaces in the Public Libraries of Berlin-Mitte

Abstract

Makerspaces have permeated public libraries for a few years now – a trend that has been fundamental to encouraging community building and enabling technical and practical education for all. The public libraries in the Central district of Berlin are embracing this important means of training by not only offering two permanent Makerspaces in two of their branches, but also by introducing a mobile MakerBus which will bring different formats to the community where needed. This new expanded service will serve our users in different ways: one Makerspace will focus further on digital skills by offering drone building classes, 3D printing and robotics; the second one will focus on more manual competences like sewing, stitching and hand-lettering but also embrace technology by offering a low-level introduction to photo and film making. The MakerBus will combine the best of both Makerspaces, offering modules in 3D printing, programming, sewing, and on top a small mobile workshop for fixing bikes and small electrical items, encouraging responsible consumption and less waste. We truly believe that by investing in and expanding these services, the Central district of Berlin will present its library users with the best in digital literacy education resting on three solid pillars of learning.