Tools & Machines
Tools & Machines
in make-a-thek
Tools & Machines concerns how equipment is explored, selected, used, explained and maintained. The focus is not on acquiring as many machines as possible, but on choosing tools that match the library’s activities, materials, skills and community needs.
Beginner
Start with what is available. Use simple tools and machines that support introductory making, repair and experimentation, choosing them with community interests and staff capacity in mind.
Intermediate
Build a more versatile toolset, with clearer instructions, booking systems, maintenance routines and beginner-friendly support that helps users gain confidence and autonomy.
Advanced
Develop a coherent equipment strategy, supported by well-maintained machines, trained and autonomous users, shared skills, documented workflows and long-term renewal planning.
Machine Cards
A practical set of cards to explore key machines: what they do, their pros and cons, required skills, and approximate costs.
How to use this resource: Use these cards to introduce key machines to staff, users or workshop participants. They can support orientation, comparison and discussion by showing what each machine does, what skills it requires, and what opportunities or limits it has.
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Best practices for energy efficiency
Best practices for energy efficiecy on how to design and manage your space with sustainability and energy-saving in mind.
How to use this resource: Use this resource to reduce unnecessary energy use in your make-a-thek space. It can support decisions on machine use, lighting, standby modes, maintenance routines and user behaviour, while keeping activities practical and accessible.
What you can do with machines and materials
A practical guide to what you can create by combining machines, materials and activities.
How to use this resource: Use this resource to explore possible outputs and activities based on different combinations of machines, materials and techniques. It can help users imagine what is possible and support staff in designing workshops or demonstrations.
Machine Tutorials
How to use key machines: a practical guide to materials, workflows, safety notes and creative uses.
How to use this resource: Use this resource as a first introduction to key machines. Each tutorial explains materials, workflows, safety notes and creative uses, helping users and facilitators understand how machines work before moving to hands-on practice.
Booking system
A printable poster tool to help manage the booking of machines and spaces.
How to use this resource: Use this printable tool to manage access to machines, workstations or shared spaces. Adapt it to your opening hours, booking rules and staff capacity, then place it where users can easily understand when and how resources are available.
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