The Maker Cookbook: Recipes for Children's and 'Tween Library Programs

by Cindy Wall, Lynn Pawloski

The Maker Movement is hot, and librarians are eager to participate. Even if you feel restricted by budget, staff, or space, this step-by-step guide will help you turn your library into a creativity center.

The Maker Movement is sweeping the nation because it is creative and educational―and a lot of fun. Nonetheless, some librarians have hesitated to incorporate the movement into their programming because their libraries do not have dedicated makerspaces. If that describes you, then take heart. Written by librarians for librarians, this "cookbook" proves that every library is already a MakerPlace and provides you with recipes to make your library come alive with creativity.

Easy-to-use, step-by-step guidance helps you create engaging K–8 programs in science and technology, arts and crafts, and home skills that are perfect for the library setting. The menu of ideas is broken into four types of programming. "Appetizers" add a taste of the Maker movement to existing library programs. "Entrees" present full programs for a lengthy one-day event or a short series. "Side Dishes" are programs you can use if you have limited staff, budget, space, or any combination of those. "Desserts" are low-tech programs, suitable for young children. Each "recipe" includes extensions, variations, and curriculum tie-ins that give you even more ways to present the program ideas, whether to a different audience or as part of other related activities. Programs that involve creating a "Balloon Zip Line," a "Zen Garden," or a "Maker Marketplace" will delight library users and generate activity and excitement in your library.

250 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maker Cookbook has interesting activities for creating a maker space. Some of the information is a bit dated as my copy was printed in 2014. Its organized like a cookbook. Really helpful if you need guidance for organizing, managing, and maintaining a makers space.

[Vi · Rating 3 out of 5]

really heavy on the books to promote the reading, less on the making.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a lot of wonderful ideas. The only reason it is not rated higher is because being craft challenged I like to see pictures of the finished project.
Anyone thinking about doing programs may want to look at this book.

[Anthony · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good ideas. Needs more pictures.