U.S. Embassy in Canada and Ottawa Public Library Partnering on Makerspace Project

News about a new partnership between the public library in Canada’s capital city and the Embassy of the U.S. in Canada that will bring a Makerspace to a branch of the Ottawa Public Library.
From the Ottawa Public Library:

The space, known as IMAGINE SPACE – An American Corner, will be located in the Ottawa Public Library’s Nepean Centrepointe branch, and is scheduled to open in early 2014.
“Through our Imagine campaign we learned that our public is very interested in new technologies and tools, as well as hands-on learning and creation,” said Danielle McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, Ottawa Public Library. “Libraries are devoted to learning and discovery, and the OPL has always strived to be responsive to the community’s needs.”
“We’re looking forward to organizing programs together with the Ottawa Public Library, reaching out to the community, and engaging bright, young minds,” said Richard Sanders, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., of the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa. “Digital literacy, innovation, and entrepreneurship are such an important part of our bilateral relationship,” he said. “Ottawa Public Library is a forward-looking library, responsive to its customers, and eager to offer them cutting-edge resources. We are very excited to be partnering with an institution that has such a positive impact on people.”
[Clip]
As part of the agreement, the U.S. Embassy has provided funds to purchase equipment, tools, and computers, as well as funding for room preparation and programming. OPL will provide a space and funding for staff to manage and oversee the activities and programs of the makerspace.
The agreement is for a one-year pilot.

Learn More About ImagineSpace (via Ottawa Public Library
See Also: Photos of Makerspace
Note: This Project is Part of the American Corners Program

American Corners Program and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, enables the U.S. to partner with libraries and academic institutions worldwide. American Corners offer access to information and technology, and provide a framework for informative and engaging programing on issues of mutual and bilateral interest. Inaugurated in 2000, the program has helped to open more than 850 spaces that welcome over 15 million visitors every year in 169 countries.

See Also: 2010 Document From U.S. Dept. of State About American Corners Program (PDF)

Filed under: Funding, Libraries, News, Public Libraries