Making in the midst of pandemic: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on two public library makerspaces

ABSTRACT

This qualitative research explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on makerspaces in the United States which were subject to public health guidelines and challenged with limited/no access to facilities. This multi-case study examined two public library makerspaces, and addressed these research questions (1) How did the pandemic affect makerspace operations and access, and the teaching and learning that occurs there? (2) How did makerspace leaders respond to the challenges of the pandemic? (3) How did makerspaces evolve during the COVID-19 pandemic? I developed the Conceptual Framework for Studying the Impact of Pandemic on Public Library Makerspaces which informed the research questions and functioned as template for the research. I collected data digitally and used qualitative coding for within- and cross-case analysis. Findings indicated that the makerspaces shifted from a physical to a virtual setting using community of practice elements. Makerspace staff responded to challenges by reallocating or seeking alternate funding, embracing virtual opportunities to engage patrons in events and instruction, implementing online scheduling calendars, and restructuring services to offer maximum events/access. The makerspaces evolved in terms of staffing, funding, operations, equipment, and offerings. Findings support makerspaces as communities of practice. The study informs makerspace professionals who are adapting to change. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)