MakerSpace | FAQ
FAQs - MAKERSPACE
What is a MakerSpace?
The MakerSpace in The Great Hall is a place for people to connect and create. The concept originated from the realization that the Library should provide experiences that take people from imagination to actual production. The Maker movement is a response to a lengthy period of history in which innovation and invention were reserved for specialists. As more individuals take on the role of inventor, Maker Faires™ and Spaces have appeared all over the country and the world. The Maker movement is also regarded as a potential economic engine as more entrepreneurs emerge and thrive.
Why is the Library doing this?
Libraries have always adapted to meet the needs of the people they serve. The Westport Library has been evolving into a community hub for many different kinds of learning experiences, and some time ago the concept of providing space for creation and production took hold. Members of the community proposed the idea of a Maker Faire, and the result was a Library partnership with CLASP Homes to produce Connecticut's first Mini Maker Faire in the spring of 2012, which attracted over 2,200 people. The establishment of a MakerSpace was a natural continuation of a clear interest in the Maker movement. The MakerSpace is where people can create content as well as also consume it--an incubator for ideas and entrepreneurship.
What is going on inside the space?
The construction of two 15-foot wooden airplanes modeled after the Bee Gee Speedster of the 1930s. People are invited to participate or watch the building of these two planes, which will be suspended from the ceiling of The Great Hall.
Who was the summer 2012 Maker-in-Residence?
Builder Joseph Schott was our first Maker-In-Residence. He displayed a plane he made with pre-school children at April's Mini Maker Faire, and ended up collaborating with the Library on making two more planes interactively with Library patrons. Many more Maker projects are being planned.
Is the space open to anyone to observe?
You can observe from outside the space through the openings of the structure or enter and take a look around.
How do I participate?
Select a time on the schedule (available online and on the MakerSpace bulletin board) when the Maker-in-Residence is available or another scheduled event is occurring in which you can help. Fill out the Liability Waiver at the Reference Desk, and receive a hand stamp to enter the MakerSpace.
Where do I get the Liability Waiver?
It is available at the Reference Desk and on the Library's website http://www.westportlibrary.org/services/maker-space. You must bring in the original, signed form to the Reference Desk.
How do I volunteer?
There is a volunteer form on the website and at the Reference Desk. After the filling out the form you will be contacted for an orientation.
Will there be any other Maker programs in the library?
A calendar of programs is on the bulletin board next to the MakerSpace and online under Services/Maker Space.
Can I bring my child in a stroller?
Strollers cannot be accommodated in this space. They may be parked outside of that area.
Can my babysitter and/or nanny go into the MakerSpace with my child?
The babysitter and/or nanny must fill out the Liability Waiver forms. If they are under 18, their parent/guardian must sign it.
How many people will be allowed in the structure at one time?
Up to 12 people will be allowed in the structure at one time. This could change based upon the activities in the space.
What can we do with the 3-D Printer?
The 3-D printer uses melted plastic to produce objects designed on a computer. Visitors to the MakerSpace may observe during scheduled times.
Who may I contact for further questions?
Press - Marcia Logan or mlogan [at] westportlibrary [dot] org
