(Image: CNN)
One of the major trends in libraries in the United States is the development of makerspaces--places where library users can build or fix physical or digital objects. A library may provide tools, such as 3D printers, CNC mills, laser cutters, and digital production hardware to patrons who wouldn't be able to afford them on their own. The purpose of a makerspace is to introduce patrons to emerging technologies and give them the skills that they need for future.
The library of the University of South Florida in Tampa is offering a new take on the makerspace trend. It's offering to students a tech tool facility that includes an aerial drone. It's a 5-pound 4-rotor remote-controlled vehicle. This is a circulating item--meaning that students can check it out.
Students who want to fly the drone must meet certain requirements:
Students will need to enroll in a training course before they can check out the equipment. They'll also be required to provide an explanation on how the drone will be utilized in a school project, and they must be supervised by a faculty member while operating it around the campus. As of now, the program aims to keep the drones on USF's campus unless a professor makes the case for an exception, and students will be liable for any damages to the equipment.
-via Library Journal