Makerspace

The Makerspace is a recently added community space in the library, part of its Innovation Hub. It offers services such as access to technical software—such as CAD and other programs installed on workstations present inside the Makerspace—that is normally paywalled. 3D printing and laser cutting services are also available. These services can be accessed by students via the library portal, much like other library services such as the Brainstorm Room. The library plans to expand this roster of services, starting with a collection of beginner tutorial videos in various domains. The choice of the equipment and software to offer in the Makerspace has been made by the library in collaboration with the Shishtaara team, which consists of faculty and students.

A representative of a BITSian technical team, when asked about the Makerspace, spoke fondly of the idea. He added that quick and cheap access to facilities such as 3D modelling and 3D printing is very useful to technical teams. According to the librarian, Mr. Giridhar Kunkur, the Makerspace is meant to be a hotspot for collaboration and innovation—a means to diversify learning, so that students do not limit themselves to reading books. He hopes that students collaborate, have dialogue, and experiment with the many services offered at the Makerspace.