Makerspace Coordinator

Portage District Library•Portage, MI

About The Position

This is a professional position performing highly technical work involving the delivery of library services to library patrons of all ages. Incumbents in this category develop and coordinate small and large-scale library programs and activities which are age relevant to the group to which it is directed. Incumbents are expected to develop and maintain a collection of devices which match the educational, reference, and recreational needs of the community. Incumbents instruct and assist patrons in the use of makerspace materials, equipment, and software. Incumbents also use social media and other forms of communication to communicate with library patrons. The position requires the ability to work and perform well under demanding circumstances including personally demanding situations. Incumbents in this position supervise other staff, volunteers, and the library, as necessary.

Requirements

Working knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods, and practices of makerspace/creation station operations, including digitization software, some digital fabrication tools, and traditional crafting tools.
An incumbent is required to acquire knowledge of the policies and procedures of the Portage District Library.
Ability to work under general supervision with latitude in exercising independent judgment and discretion subject to Library policies, procedures, and professional practices.
Interpersonal and communication skills are necessary to interact with various library staff and patrons in an effective and courteous manner.
Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms.
Analytical ability to maintain accurate statistics.
Visual acuity and physical skills are necessary to operate and move equipment and materials.
Hearing ability to answer telephone and patron inquiries
Skills necessary to effectively access information on the computer.
Must possess the ability to assign, supervise, instruct, and train personnel in a manner conducive and effective to the resources of the library.
High school diploma or GED required.
Relevant coursework, certifications, or professional development in makerspace technologies, digital fabrication, or STEM education.
Experience supervising staff, volunteers, or part-time employees, including scheduling, training, and daily operations.
Experience coordinating or managing a small department, program, or service area in a public library or community-based setting.
Hands-on experience operating and maintaining makerspace equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, engravers, sewing machines, and large-format printers.
Experience developing and enforcing safety procedures, equipment policies, and patron use guidelines.
Experience providing customer service in a public-facing environment, with an emphasis on accessibility and equitable service.
Experience working with diverse populations, including adults, teens, and families, in a community learning environment.
Experience teaching or facilitating hands-on workshops, classes, or one-on-one instruction for public library patrons.
Experience creating instructional materials, tutorials, or guides for patrons with varying skill levels.

Responsibilities

Stays current with technology trends and makes recommendations for new equipment, software, and programming while participating in strategic planning initiatives related to the Makerspace.
Analyze community needs, cultural trends, and emerging library practices to inform and expand Makerspace offerings.
Tracks inventory and purchase new consumables related to the Makerspace.
Oversees the Makerspace.
Performs general troubleshooting and required maintenance of Makerspace equipment, furnishings, and software.
Organizes the Makerspace and creates/amends procedures using best practices for safety, compliance, and collaboration with the library community of users.
Oversee the Makerspace budget and keeps track of usage statistics.
Develops, plans, implements, and evaluates programs with a focus on making and technology for children, teens, adults, and intergenerational audiences that could be presented in or outside the library. These programs should be responsive to community needs while sparking interest and curiosity. They should inspire patrons to embrace their interests and ignite their creativity.
Actively and continually solicits ideas from the library staff and collaborates with them to develop Makerspace programming for all ages.
Collaborate with members of the community to present Makerspace classes and programs.
Assists patrons in the use of Makerspace equipment.
Assists in the promotion of the Makerspace utilizing written, oral, video, web, and social media communication.
Seeks out and engages with community groups to promote the library and Makerspace services.
Conduct outreach using Makerspace ideas/equipment with special attention to underserved or marginalized populations.
Trains and supervises Makerspace staff through on-site instruction.
Trains Makerspace Staff on how to prepare and present Makerspace programs directed at the various audiences the library serves.
Performs tours and presentations on Makerspace services.
Attends educational programs and reads literature to keep up to date on new developments in the Makerspace field.
Assist in the preparation of reports and information for staff and Library Board reports.
Supervises library operations and closing of facility during evening and weekend hours in the absence of senior management.
May initiate and maintain community contacts and serve on committees and boards at the local and state level.
Participates in professional organizations, shares information by networking, teaching workshops, and preparing group presentations in the community and at local, state, and national conferences.
Pursues professional development by serving on PDL committees, and attending meetings, workshops, and conferences to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills of pertinent Library policies, procedures, and equipment.
Proactively seeks opportunities to provide friendly and helpful customer services to library users.
Attends training courses and undertakes special training activities as directed.
Participate in the development and implementation of planning and visioning for the department.
Serves as front line staff in enforcing library policies and resolving patron conflicts.
May represent the Library at various promotional events and activities.