by Saul Jacobs
Times are changing, and so are libraries. The next frontier of information science is here, and it may not be what you would expect. Libraries across the world are taking the leap from being a hub for accessing content to being a bastion for content creation. The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library is positioning itself to be at the center of this change, preparing to roll out a program – Make U – to provide Toledoans with the tools to create.
Make U is a new series of programs by the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library that emphasizes the creativity inherent in all of us; prompting the design and creation of meaningful content. Library Director & Fiscal Officer Clyde Scoles explained, “We’re following an international trend where libraries are expanding the ways they help customers create their own content.” A program in its infancy, there are few boundaries for this endeavor in creativity. Self expression is the focus, offering the tools necessary for the creation of objects, sounds, images or ideas that tell a larger, personal narrative and that contribute to the community and human story as a whole.
The library has reported stable circulation numbers over the last decade, however, currently 17% of circulation is in the form of E-book. A plethora of other digital services have emerged in recent years including streaming video and music collections. The main branch of the TLCPL also houses an archiving studio to digitize books that date back hundreds of years. Computer stations are prevalent throughout the library, where there are also entire rooms dedicated to the video game ‘experience’.
Make U follows the digitalization trend, offering patrons access to expensive, otherwise exclusive, software and technology. “Decades ago someone may have spent time researching a novel they were writing. Today they might be studying programming to make the next indispensible app.” said Main Library Manager Meg Delaney. 3D Printing, Audio & Video Production, Graphic Design and Writing are the first additions to the TLCPL Makerspace. “As we get legs under the Make U initiative, we’ll be adding new equipment, programs, and services.”
3D Printing
The earliest launch of the Make U program has seen the acquisition of 3D Printers. The 3 MakerBot Replicators, purchased last year, employ an additive process where layers of material are pressed, under computer control, to create a 3D object. They print in ceramic, plastic, compostable material and a slew of other mediums, including frosting. Across the country, machines like these are being used in medical studies and industry – the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Laboratory recently printed a Shelby Cobra sports car. Library goers will be able to make anything from a flower vase to a custom threaded screw. These advanced pieces of equipment will soon be available for public use, making an otherwise expensive, experimental technology accessible.
Local Writing
Make U will expand on the resources already available to local writers, encouraging the growth of our city’s rich literary culture. They offer the opportunity to submit a work to the Library’s collection and share it with the community. There will be poetry workshops and resources available along with writing groups and contests.
Collaboration
Collaboration is a tool in itself, and this idea fuels Make U, by providing an environment that fosters creativity and the resources to create. To do this, the Library has expanded its function as an inclusive institution and has cultivated an enviorment for creative incubation. Very little happens in a vacuum. Assistance, feedback and differing perspectives influence and advance the creative process.
Graphic Design & Audio Video Production
The West Toledo library branch, reopened in 2014 after a $3 million renovation, now has a “creation studio” equipped with state of the art audio, video, photography and design technology. Podcasts, songs or entire albums can now be created there. Expensive software, along with microphones and keyboards, allow the public to access audio engineering.
In addition to audio technology the Library offers video production tools, including cameras, lighting equipment and editing software. High powered Mac computers provide for full use of Adobe Photoshop for graphic design. Animation and web design are just a few of the applications that this aspect of Make U offer. They have a light box and camera for professional photography along with large external displays and advanced Wacom drawing tablets. These tools will help artists and business owners alike, again granting access to expensive technology and software.
Tech Literacy
Make U advances people’s ability to create by enhancing their ability to use emerging technology. In today’s digital existence, a lack of tech literacy can translate to the loss of opportunity. The Library bridges the gap for those without the means necessary to learn how to use technology and remain relevant in a wired society. Equalizing the playing field ensures that the changing game will be accessible to everyone who wants to join in.
Make U jr.
Since Make U is not exclusively geared towards adults, the Library has an added effort, providing hands-on experiences to children as well. The goal here is to inspire developing thinkers and nurture creativity by giving kids the opportunity to make things. From simple arts and crafts to high-tech computer aided creation, Make U jr. will connect children to their inherent creative spark
Self Publishing
Access is the catalyst to self publication. Once the tools for creation are made accessible, people will create, in this digital age the artist can share their work without a third party publisher. Toledoans with a creative spark will now be able to not only manifest their ideas, but introduce them into the world.
This is the ultimate goal of Make U, telling our personal narratives and adding to the human story that has been unfolding for thousands of years. Not only will this enrich our culture, it will enrich the life the individual, the creator. The library, while certainly not the only institution committed to this vision, is one of very few entities where access to it is affordable.
The Make U program is about more than just creation, these programs will impact the individuals using them in profound ways, validating aspiring artists, inspiring scientists and sparking the imagination of writers. The Make U program’s impact on the community is yet to be seen, but from the onset it is poised to expose and nurture the talents and genius waiting to blossom in our community. “In the coming months, TLCPL will be looking to our community to help inform our next strategic plan, and that will undoubtedly shape how our Make U initiative matures and grows.” Delaney explained. To be successful, Make U needs you, so stop in your local Library and make something beautiful.
There will be a Make U Fair, June 26-27, featuring activities and presentations that will introduce the public to the new tools available. Attendees can design 3D printable objects, deconstruct appliances and learn to create comic books and frosting roses.
For more info on the Make U Fair, June 26-27 call the West Toledo Branch at 419-259-5290.
www.makeu.toledolibrary.org
[email protected]
419.259.5200
Main Branch: 325 Michigan St.
West Toledo Branch: 1320 Sylvania Ave.
