Much progress has been made on the new Makerspace area in the Stellenbosch University Library. January 2021 is the new date that clients can look forward to the opening of this service. The Makerspace will support research creativity and innovation, drawing together students with ideas and those with the technical skills to turn them into reality.
Construction work on the area is complete. A brand new, signposted entrance to the Makerspace has been created from opposite the fire escape doors of the Learning Commons. In addition, this appealing space now boasts Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, an extended fume hood and has a fresh look.
The goal of the Makerspace is to enable students to create new digital artifacts and materials, adapt new digital tools, processes, and methods and participate in innovative projects, communities, and discussions. This will be accomplished by using digital desktop tools to create designs for new products and to prototype them (digital DIY). A booking facility will be available to reserve a construction or design workstation and to book the tools and equipment a client needs for a session.
A Makerspace Library Guide, as well as an information page for the Library website, has already been compiled by eager library staff working from home during Covid-19. Both resources are ready for publishing.
The Library looks forward to welcoming students to unlock their creative potential in this fantastic space.