The Fishers Library lost a tenant for lower-level space recently when Launch Fishers moved to a new building, but that provided an opportunity when the space reverted back to the library.  The town (and later city) of Fishers leased that space from the Hamilton East Library Board to house Launch Fishers.  The lease has expired and the library has the space.

Library officials are now asking the public how the space should be used.  In two focus group meetings I attended, there were many ideas provided in brain-storming sessions.

Consultant Rob Cullin talked about a concept many other libraries around the nation are utilizing called “Makerspace.”  This would provide hands on experiences for two kinds of activities.

The first type would be “Physical,” providing equipment and activities for cooking, crafts, costuming, to name a few.

The second type would be “Digital,” providing the tools to have TV & audio production, 3-D printing, robotics, and many others.

Cullin described the concept as “collaborative consumption,”

He reminded those in the focus groups that libraries were started at a time when books were expensive and beyond the reach of most people at that time.  For example, today most people do not have a TV production or Audio production facility in their home, but could utilize one at the local library.

Those in the focus groups provided a variety of suggestions.

Cullin reminded everyone that remodeling the lower level of the library in Fishers will not increase taxes.  The funding will come from existing financial reserves.

Beth Meyer, Deputy Library Director, told LarryInFishers the remodeling plans are in the “embryonic stage” and any final decision is a long way off.