Remaker Spaces
Submitted by awhitney on Sat, 07/09/2016 - 12:10
Type of Pilot Project:
Public Service
Describe Project and Impact:
Instead of throwing away broken household items, bring them to the library's Remaker Space event and volunteers will help you learn how to fix it, thereby saving money and reducing waste.
Project Description and Expected Outcomes:
Remaker Space events can be hosted at the library. These are sessions in which volunteers with expertise in repairing small appliances, gadgets, bikes, clothing, et cetera will help the person figure out what is wrong with the item, then show them how to repair and maintain it.
These events can be tied into the collection--we have a great many books and electronic resources on repairing things, but the face to face practice Remaker Spaces offer is an important added dimension. Remaker Spaces can be community-building experiences as well--with the public encouraged to observe, participate, and learn.
People who may just want an item fixed will discover other resources we have to offer, and hopefully get a library card if they don't have one already. It's a way to get people engaged.
Why should we select this project?:
It's practical, helpful, provides useful problem solving knowledge and expertise in a fun environment. It will help people save money and will reduce waste. It could be done entirely in the library or we could host/sponsor events in other locations if we need more space. It's a way promote the library outside of our buildings. It would also encourage additional volunteers with specific skill sets to join us.
Constraints, Limitations, or Dependencies:
Recruiting and managing the volunteers; Deciding what specific kinds of items they'll be repairing.
Source of Inspiration:
When I was an Adult Services Librarian I ran across this link: http://repaircafe.org/en/
I think this model is fine, but I think it could be modified in order to be presented in libraries. At that time I wasn't sure I had the resources at my library to try this. I ran it by other librarians who agreed that it is a very cool idea. I'd forgotten about it until this Pilot Project thing appeared.
Performance Indicators:
Market Penetration
Environment:
Library
Experience:
InterReach
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