Young people's information practices in library makerspaces

Xiaofeng Li

Journal of the Association for Information Science & Technology, 2021, vol. 72, issue 6, 744-758

Abstract: While there have been a growing number of studies on makerspaces in different disciplines, little is known about how young people interact with information in makerspaces. This study aimed to unpack how young people (middle and high schoolers) sought, used, and shared information in voluntary free‐choice library makerspace activities. Qualitative methods, including individual interviews, observations, photovoice, and focus groups, were used to elicit 21 participants' experiences at two library makerspaces. The findings showed that young people engaged in dynamic practices of information seeking, use, and sharing, and revealed how the historical, sociocultural, material, and technological contexts embedded in makerspace activities shaped these information practices. Information practices of tinkering, sensing, and imagining in makerspaces were highlighted. Various criteria that young people used in evaluating human sources and online information were identified as well. The study also demonstrated the communicative and collaborative aspects of young people's information practices through information sharing. The findings extended Savolainen's everyday information practices model and addressed the gap in the current literature on young people's information behavior and information practices. Understanding how young people interact with information in makerspaces can help makerspace facilitators and information professionals better support youth services and facilitate makerspace activities.

Date: 2021
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