The Makerspace Librarian’s Sourcebook. Edited by Ellyssa Kroski. Chicago: ALA, 2017. 400 p. Paper $85 (ISBN 978-0-8389-1504-2).

For those starting up a new library makerspace or those already managing one, this book offers advice to managers and staff on the logistics of running a library makerspace and discusses the requisite interpersonal skills for employees of such facilities. Divided into three parts, this book is organized chronologically, following the progression from creating to operating to sustaining a library makerspace. It addresses both the quotidian and the conceptual, from day-to-day operations to effective pedagogy, and ends with thoughts on the future of library makerspaces.

Beginning with the definition of a makerspace and how this can vary depending on the type of library that hosts it, this book covers public, academic, and K–12 libraries, introducing readers to a broad spectrum of library makerspace models. Equipment lists for all budget sizes and technological foci are included. Part 1 emphasizes the importance of communication with the space’s users to learn which tools and programming are most useful and appropriate for them while encouraging a diverse, radically inclusive library makerspace culture.

Part 1 ends with a section on safety, an appropriate segue into part 2, which consists of chapters that overview a makerspaces in a variety of libraries These chapters serve as guides for projects including some of the most popular technology found in makerspaces.

This book concludes with thoughts on the sustainability of library makerspaces and recommendations for ways to ensure their continued success following the depletion of start-up funding and interest. This section emphasizes the importance of fostering the community that embodies a makerspace by acknowledging that everyone is a maker. Makerspace leaders are encouraged to perpetuate this idea by embedding educators of diverse backgrounds into the makerspace and being especially supportive of makerspace patrons and volunteers whose time, effort, and passion are of exemplary nature.—Cody Taylor, Emerging Technologies Librarian, University of Oklahoma Libraries, Norman, Oklahoma