Makerspace Services and Programming for Youth with Disabilities in Public Libraries: Current State and Prevalence

Makerspaces have been embraced by public libraries, but the extent to which library makerspaces provide welcoming and accessible spaces, services, and programming for youth with disabilities remains underexplored. This study investigates survey responses from 136 library professionals and follow-up interviews with 13 participants. Findings show that only a small number of public libraries offered programs or services specifically designed for youth with disabilities. Challenges include limited staffing, training, and funding. Also, this study highlights the discrepancies in library professionals’ perceptions and varied strategies toward inclusivity and accessibility, ranging from keeping their makerspaces open to all users, to offering targeted programming.