Maker Jawn
Free Library of Philadelphia
What is a "Maker Jawn"
The word "jawn" is a slang term used in Philadelphia that can be used to described practically anything. The Maker Jawn came about from a grant to the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The idea was to "create on-the-floor maker spaces in libraries."
STEAM Initiative
"Local residents...gain access to technology and participatory education and encourage creative applications and collaborative projects."
Peer and Community Mentors
Staffing of the Maker Jawn uses community mentors and students who are skilled in various areas, instead of using traditional library staff.
Engaging Youth
Having maker spaces in the library give students a place to express their interests and understand that their voices have power.
Literacy is MORE than Written Words
"Literacy goes beyond the ability to comprehend and express oneself through written language; it is about the ability to construct meaning through a wide range of platforms that includes things like YouTube videos, fabrication, and social networks."