These students at Liberty Middle School investigate the new tools and equipment in the Makerspace in the library. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – What do a three-dimensional (3D) printer, a drone and LEGOs have in common? These items are some of the tools in the new Makerspace in Liberty Middle School’s library.

“We have been working on putting together a Makerspace for use by students and teachers. It includes things such as a 3D scanner, circuit kits and electronic components, software, robotics and arts and crafting equipment,” media specialist Sandy Brand said.

Makerspaces are creative areas for students to work on special projects to design and generate objects. One student could choose to write and illustrate a booklet. Others could opt to screen print or create model houses with a 3D printer.

A Makerspace usually houses tools and equipment that are too expensive for a student to have at home. Liberty students already have been using the Makerspace’s ‘green screen’ as a backdrop for high-quality videography exercises.

Liberty held a grand opening for its Makerspace on Sept. 3. Liberty Principal Nelson Brown and Brand welcomed Madison Board of Education members Ranae Bartlett, Tim Holtcamp, Terri Johnson and Connie Spears, along with Mayor Troy Trulock, to view the innovative addition at the middle school.

“Teachers were just as excited as students were when the new area was finally revealed,” director of public relations John Peck said. “School leaders have worked on the project for about a year now. At the beginning of the school year, Sandy Brand placed a black curtain over Makerspace so students could not see what it was until it was completely ready.”

Students will continue to visit the library to check out books. The new additions just complement the library’s existing features. “So, really, (the library) is a place where they can come in and explore and learn and create, only limited by their imaginations,” Brand said.

“Students are no longer just consumers of information but creators of information,” Brand said.