How can we get youth in our spaces to engage beyond the “hanging out” and “messing around” phase of HOMAGO? How can we design programs and spaces to encourage youth to dive more deeply in expert programs? The case studies in Getting to Geeking Out include developing project-based programs, dedicated program times in the space, and more.
Getting to “geeking out” through project-based programming
The Labs at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh were originally designed around a drop-in framework. As we evolved, became integrated in library locations, and built a consistent youth attendance, we identified a problem: if the hanging out and messing around are on lock, how can we design in-depth programs and projects to support deeper dives into skill building and content creation?
Creating Deeper Learning Opportunities Through Long-term Projects
After facilitating over two years of identical programming across multiple sites, Maker Mentors at the Free Library of Philadelphia felt the urgency to provide deeper learning opportunities based on youth interest at each site. How best to begin this? How to meet youth interests with limited mentor knowledge and skills?
Supporting Youth Leadership Through Stipended Programs and Summer Jobs
The Labs @ Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh are always looking for ways to support youth leadership. What are the structures you need to have in place to get youth to engage deeply and authentically? How can you deepen their engagement and design pathways for youth leadership?
Space Utilization and the Impact on Geeking Out
Space isn’t always plentiful—or possible—within existing buildings. When expanding our program at the Lynn Public Library, we looked at how limited space and an increase in demand was affecting the overarching goals of getting teens to fully invest in maker programs.