By Patricia J. Murphy
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Today libraries are many things to different people. As places for engaging storytimes, welcoming and safe havens, and labs for creativity, libraries help expand children’s minds. We spoke with three librarians about how their makerspaces are sparking students’ creativity and curiosity, and impacting lives.
K-5 librarian and mental health advocate Liz Smith sets up makerspace stations on her library’s long wooden tables at Titche Elementary School in Dallas, Tex. And while her school doesn’t have the funds to create a dedicated makerspace with all the bells and whistles, Smith does everything she can to create meaningful makerspace experiences for her students. She says they deserve nothing less. “We’re in an area where our kids don’t get exposed to a lot of the same things as kids in the affluent neighborhoods…