DigiBook MakerSpace in Chinese Public Libraries

DigiBook MakerSpaces are where readers, including children, can create and publish original content in public libraries. The system provides simple writing tools that are integrated with an easy to use digital publishing platform, which incorporates library collections, text, photography, audio, painting, calligraphy, etc. Libraries encourage children and parents to jointly produce (often multimedia) materials; to edit and display their e-books; and to share the success and happiness of their creations with family and friends. Installed on library servers, DigiBook MakerSpace enables children and parents to work together in co-creation of family-related materials. This close personal way to learn from and better understand each other can improve family relationships and support children’s healthy development. In addition, libraries can then index and incorporate these original and special e-books, which diversify and localize their collections. More and more people in China believe that content creation and digital services have greatly improved the library experience. The original e-books that capture and retain the highlights of people’s and family’s lives will become part of a community’s and even the country’s heritage. This contributes to the preservation of traditional culture. Libraries not only acquire vast amounts of mass published material, but also collect and archive local creations by their patrons (of any age). In this way, libraries will play a greater role in people’s lives and help to build the history of their community for future generations. In this paper, we will describe the current status and challenges in supporting patrons creating their original e-books with resident digital platforms in the public libraries in China. In particular, we will present examples of how DigiBook MakerSpaces help children create and publish their works in 30 public libraries in China.