DigiMaker is part of the university library and is located on LiU’s campuses in Linköping and Norrköping. It was set up in 2018 as a pilot project inspired by other universities and public libraries that already had such spaces, known as makerspaces, for creative activities and exploration of different crafts and new technologies. DigiMaker has now become a fixed point where students can develop their digital skills hands-on.
“We saw that there was a gap between what you’re expected to know and where you could learn it. That’s why we started DigiMaker to offer a place where students can be introduced to and inspired by new technology and thereby increase their digital skills,” says Anna Karin Malmborg, who is in charge of Digimaker.
A creative workshop for a digital future
“The most popular workshops are those related to 3D printing. Most of the other things that can be borrowed from DigiMaker are fairly accessible in the community anyway. But a 3D printer is hard to get hold of for a private individual, especially a student, as they are so expensive,” says Gustav Gjesdahl.
That is why he likes the idea that DigiMaker promotes a sharing economy where students can borrow equipment instead of buying their own. It is a creative environment that also encourages the sharing of knowledge and ideas.
“The best thing is the promotion of interest in new technology and the fact that we learn from and are inspired by each other,” says Gustav Gjesdahl.
New collaborations and technologies
Students can participate in workshops in their spare time because they want to broaden their skills, and may also visit DigiMaker as part of their education.
“We collaborate with several programmes that use our services in different courses. For example, the Bachelor’s programme in Urban and Regional Planning uses our VR equipment,” says Nelly Hagberg, librarian.
New collaborations with other programmes and courses are underway, and testify to how the library embraces digital resources and equips students for their future working lives.
“We want to be relevant and be the knowledge hub needed in a digital age,” says Anna Karin Malmborg.
