Free Little Makerspace Box - Unlocking Creativity

    I worked in school libraries for over 20 years.  The library is a place in the school where all are welcome.  Students came for different reasons and varying levels of enthusiasm.  Some came to find the perfect book, others came because they had to.  But one thing we did in the library all the students loved and were excited to participate in was - Makerspace Days!

    Makerspace Days were when we brought out different activities for the students to do.  We had stations with Legos, blocks, puzzles, snap circuits etc. We also had various kinds of arts-n-crafts.  I was always excited to see what creative items the kids would make.  Many were very comfortable with craft supplies and started right away on their creations.  A few were a little more reserved, thinking that their creation had to meet certain requirements.  Those were the kids who I would encourage to open up and let their creativity soar.

    I found it curious that some kids had very little exposure to arts-n-crafts.  When I was growing up we were always making something out of simple supplies like cardboard, tissue paper, glue, fabric etc.  But I guess that was our entertainment.  Today they have many other options to entertain themselves.  I believe all people have some kind of creativity at their core. Some people need to be encouraged and exposed to different ways to unlock that creativity.  My desire is to provide a way for the kids (and adults) in my community to unlock their creative soul.  So, I am putting a Free Little Makerspace Box in my front yard.

    A Free Little Makerspace Box is similar to a Free Little Library since it is a box on a post but instead of books inside there will be craft kits.  The craft kits will be simple projects kids (and adults) can make on their own or with a little bit of help.  Each kit will have most of the main supplies for the project.  They will need to supply the basic craft supplies like glue, crayons, markers, tape etc.  There is no charge for the kits they are free.  I am using simple, inexpensive items to create the kits.

    My hope is that the kids (and adults) will come get a kit from the box each month and spend some time allowing their creativity to soar.  Check out the video below about how we built and installed our "Free Little Makerspace Box".

Danna