Makerspace Manager

City of Lynchburg•Lynchburg, VA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Makerspace Manager provides leadership, direction and oversight for the Lynchburg Public Library’s new Makerspace, a community learning environment promoting creativity, innovation, technology exploration and hands-on learning. The Makerspace is part of the Main Library renovation and is scheduled to open in spring/summer of 2027. The position develops and implements educational programs connecting patrons of all ages with STEAM, digital literacy, creative arts and emerging technologies. The successful candidate combines leadership and organizational skills with an interest in emerging technologies, experiential learning and public service, and can translate technical concepts into accessible, engaging learning experiences for diverse audiences. The role leads the Makerspace’s ongoing operation, including procedures, policies, equipment, budgets, safety, and service evaluation. It also delivers hands-on instruction, builds community partnerships, promotes equitable access to technology and supports funding initiatives. Work is performed in a public library Makerspace and may include service at other library locations as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, science, technology, engineering, instructional technology or a related field.
Demonstrated experience working with technology, technical equipment, hands-on learning environments, educational programming or library programming.
Experience developing and delivering programs, training or instructional activities for individuals or groups in a public-facing institution, such as a public library, museum or school.
Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
Ability to translate technical concepts into accessible and engaging learning experiences for diverse audiences.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from an ALA-accredited program.

Responsibilities

Lead the development, implementation and ongoing operation of the Makerspace, establishing procedures, workflows, service standards and goals that support the library’s mission.
Develop and implement policies and guidelines for equipment use, patron access, training, safety and responsible use of Makerspace resources.
Oversee the selection, acquisition, installation, maintenance and troubleshooting of Makerspace equipment, technology, tools and supplies.
Maintain an organized, safe, accessible and welcoming environment for patrons, staff and volunteers.
Develop and monitor operating budgets, supply inventories, equipment maintenance and replacement plans.
Establish performance measures and assess program participation, community impact, equipment utilization and service effectiveness.
Plan, develop and deliver hands-on programs, workshops, demonstrations and learning experiences for children, teens, adults and families.
Develop educational opportunities in areas such as 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting, sewing and textiles, robotics, coding, electronics, digital design, crafting and other emerging technologies.
Provide instruction and training to help patrons safely and confidently use equipment, tools and software.
Collaborate with library departments to integrate Makerspace resources into library programs and services.
Adapt instruction and activities to accommodate varying ages, abilities, interests and levels of technical experience.
Develop and maintain partnerships with schools, colleges, universities, early childhood education providers, nonprofit organizations, businesses and workforce development organizations.
Promote equitable access to technology, equipment and educational experiences for people who may have limited access to these resources elsewhere.
Support grant development, sponsorship opportunities and other funding initiatives that expand and sustain Makerspace services.
Participate in the library’s community outreach committee and attend community events to promote the Makerspace.
May work in other library locations as needed, including the bookmobile, and may serve as library courier.
May be required to accept special assignments during unusual situations or a declared State of Emergency to ensure appropriate service delivery.
May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends to support library programming and community activities.
Perform other duties to provide direct or indirect services to citizens as assigned.