User Experiences in a Regional University Library Makerspace

Emilia Bell

Abstract: This paper presents the research design, process, and findings for an ongoing qualitative case study on users’ engagement in the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) Library Makerspace. The UniSQ Makerspace is a community space which provides equipment and expertise for hands-on projects and learning, fostering creativity and knowledge sharing. In this presentation I focus on how a visual research method has been incorporated into semi-structured interviews. This helped to further a participant-driven dialogue and contributed to how themes were developed through thematic analysis. The case study explores how Makerspace users are engaging with the space and its services via three different usage modes: for course curriculum, extra-curricular, or research benefit. The visual and tactile nature of the Makerspace provided an opportunity to expand the scope of photo-voice research techniques to include other forms of visual media and add depth to interview responses. Interview participants were invited to share visual media (such as photos or the physical output of a Makerspace project) as part of the interview process. This presentation explores how this research approach helped to elicit rich perspectives and engagement from participants.

About: Emilia Bell is the Coordinator (Evidence-Based Practice) at the University of Southern Queensland Library. They contribute to developing an evidence-based culture in the Library, including through practice-based research, to support service improvement, professional practice, decision-making, and value and impact. Emilia has worked in academic and school libraries and is also a PhD student at Curtin University.