BSCENE TECH SCENE

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BSCENE
YOUR #1 EVENT GUIDE
TECH SCENE
BEYOND BOOKS:
LIBRARY SEES DIGITAL AS WAY FORWARD
EVAN ROBERSTON
Photo courtesy Brantford Public Library
A closer look at our local library reveals a changing
institution with technology at the forefront of its
mission. Beyond the books is a new digital dimension
of the library, with books being offered alongside things
such as 3D printing, robotic programming, and audio
visual production equipment. This new hardware,
software, and library programming, events, and activities
all come together to form what is known as Makerspace.
Makerspace is a newer undertaking by the Brantford
Public Library, influenced by the success of other
local libraries in creating their own similar concepts.
Inspired by the Innisfil Public Library, an early adopter
of the concepts behind Makerspace, the Brantford
Public Library now joins other libraries in Kitchener,
Oakville, Hamilton and other cities and towns in offering
visitors a chance to learn, share ideas, be creative, and
most importantly, make. Although influenced by other
libraries, all communities are unique and the Brantford
Public Library’s Makerspace is guided by customer
feedback and input.
More than just a collection of free to use equipment,
Makerspace is an exercise in public creativity and
collaboration, accessible, and open to everyone in
Brantford. Removing financial and other barriers
ensures access to resources and learning opportunities
that may not have been available otherwise. Much
like the public availability of books and other printed
materials increases literacy levels, so too does this newly
added part of the library’s collection. Tom Bentley, the
library’s Information Solutions Coordinator calls this
“Bridging the digital literacy divide.”
A free to use 3D printer, video camera, microphone,
instruments, green screen, professional caliber design
software, a sewing machine and much more awaits
library visitors. A trip to the library can be more than
just a chance to pick up a book or read a magazine. No
expertise or previous experience is needed to try what’s
available at Makerspace or join the related activities,
classes and events. Stop by your local library and try
something new; see how it has evolved into a modern,
future focused public resource, which is well positioned
to respond to the needs of the community today,
tomorrow, and beyond.
Along with creating their own projects, library visitors
can participate in structured, instructor led classes and
activities. Check out http://brantford.library.on.ca/
events for a list of everything that’s happening at the
library.
Makerspace has been positively received by the
community and continues to see an increase in use as
public awareness of this great community resource
rises. As part of a public outreach program, library
staff visited 26 local schools, reaching a total of 7,234
students and teachers. Makerspace has opened the
door to partnership opportunities in the community.
Local architect Saas Faraj instructed two programs on
3D design software, while Professor Scott Nicholson
and Librarian Michele Goodridge from Wilfrid Laurier
University’s Brantford campus have partnered with the
library on several game related programs.
Photo courtesy Brantford Public Library
s the Brantford Public Library continues to evolve
to serve the needs of its community, technology
is playing an ever increasing role in library
programming and resources offered to the community.
“It’s more of a community centre, creative centre, a
community hub, not just a building full of books.” Says
James Clark, Marketing Manager for the library.
Photo courtesy Brantford Public Library
A
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