Unifying Space and Service for Makers, Entrepreneurs, and Digital Scholars

Abstract

This article explores the evolution and role of makerspaces in academic libraries, with a particular focus on how libraries are using innovation spaces in support of entrepreneurship and digital humanities on campus. At the University of Arizona Libraries in Tucson, a unique new coworking and makerspace called the iSpace has developed. While many libraries have long supported digital humanities and digital scholarship, the emergence of makerspaces has led to new approaches to learning and knowledge creation within the library and campus ecosystem. Cross-disciplinary collaborations and the cultivation of a community of learners are two among many benefits to this approach and service. As academic libraries aim to meet multiple demands on space, budgets, and changing learning environments, many of them will consider establishing their own makerspaces. Looking at makerspaces through this lens of wide support for both entrepreneurs and digital scholars will provide unique perspectives for wider conversations.