The Makerspaces, innovation labs within Medellín’s Public Library System, were established at the end of 2018 as part of the Bibliolabs strategy. Located in the library parks of San Cristóbal, San Javier, and Doce de Octubre, these spaces have functioned as experimental hubs for users since 2018. Between 2020 and 2023, more than 4,370 individuals benefited from approximately 1,018 activities conducted in these innovation and technology centers.
The secretary of Civic Culture, Álvaro Narváez Díaz, stated that the Makerspaces are spaces for innovation, creation, and building citizenship through the public libraries of Medellín. They offer state-of-the-art tools and technologies such as laser cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, robotics, electronic equipment, 3D modeling, and programming with the Arduino system. The services, free for the public, aim to democratize access to new technologies through four distinct approaches: Makers Training, Technical Consultations, Maker Sessions, and Bibliolabs Talks.
This initiative reaffirms Medellín’s commitment to building a “Software Valley“, prioritizing science, technology, and innovation.