Maker Fairs in the library are a great way to attract multiple demographics at one time -- whether children, parents, or even teens! Creativity coupled with risk-free exploration and real-life results allow for Maker Fairs to be well-loved and well-attended. Yet, times when teens would want to enjoy the Maker Fair and times when families with younger children want to attend can vary wildly. So...how exactly can you frame this type of event to aim directly at teens and make SUPER SURE that they stop by? Take that Maker Fair to them obviously!
What specifically do I mean by that though? Well, use those alliances with your local high schools to bring the fair to them is the simplest way to explain it. As long as you properly hype the Maker Fair, I guarantee that the schools will be JUMPING to have you visit. Case in point --> I have held a Maker Fair specifically for secondary school students at our shared public library-high school facility for the past three years. This year, the nearby Catholic high school that I've been getting close too wanted one of their own. Once this arrangement was in the books and teachers started to talking to other teachers, a third school contacted me about having their own Maker Fair! And honestly, why wouldn't they appreciate this? Maker Fairs bring super fun activities to their students for free, teachers get the opportunity to allow their students creative growth without having to do any work, and they look amazing on social media (which reflects good on the school and the library). Meanwhile, libraries get to form personal connections with teachers at nearby schools as well as students, show off making activities that can be available at the library, and be an active member of the community. HOW TO MAKE IT WORK (after your library/manager gives you the okay):
2 Comments
8/28/2023 08:27:16 am
The concept of "Travelling Maker Fairs" truly encapsulates innovation and community spirit combined. This article beautifully highlights the essence of sharing creativity while exploring new horizon
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8/28/2023 10:30:14 am
What a motivational read! The article "Take Your Show on the Road: Traveling Maker Fairs" perfectly portrays the spirit of spreading innovation and creativity around the world.
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AuthorOriginally wanting to be the love-child of Kathy Reichs and Indiana Jones, Brooke was pulled into the magical world of library service over 12 years ago. Finding that her ultimate passion was in teen services, she did what she normally does in a heart-fueled endeavor -- ran in head-first and never looked back! Cosplayer, movie fanatic, binge watcher, Disney Worlder. Proud cat mom of Evelyn (named after the librarian character in The Mummy [1999]). Archives
April 2024
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