Abstract
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into academic library makerspaces presents emerging opportunities for enhancing innovation, creativity, and user engagement. However, financial considerations often influence the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in academic institutions located in developing regions. This study systematically reviews freely available AI tools applicable to makerspace environments in academic libraries, providing a descriptive and comparative analysis of their functionalities and potential applications. By mapping the current landscape of open-access on a gratis level, this research identifies key categories of AI applications such as design generation, image generation, language processing, and data visualization, highlighting the strengths, limitations, and practical considerations associated with their adoption. The findings offer a comprehensive resource for librarians and educators seeking to integrate AI technologies into makerspace activities without incurring additional costs and provide recommendations for effective selection and implementation of these tools in academic contexts.
Keywords
AI tools, Makerspace, Academic Libraries, Open Access
Date of this Version
11-2025
Recommended Citation
Marvin Factor, Kate Lora Cruz, and Yugosto Balbas,
"Free-dom in Creativity: Cost-accessible AI Tools for Makerspaces in Academic Libraries."
Proceedings of the IATUL Conferences.
Paper 10.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/iatul/2025/breakout/10
Included in
Free-dom in Creativity: Cost-accessible AI Tools for Makerspaces in Academic Libraries
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into academic library makerspaces presents emerging opportunities for enhancing innovation, creativity, and user engagement. However, financial considerations often influence the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in academic institutions located in developing regions. This study systematically reviews freely available AI tools applicable to makerspace environments in academic libraries, providing a descriptive and comparative analysis of their functionalities and potential applications. By mapping the current landscape of open-access on a gratis level, this research identifies key categories of AI applications such as design generation, image generation, language processing, and data visualization, highlighting the strengths, limitations, and practical considerations associated with their adoption. The findings offer a comprehensive resource for librarians and educators seeking to integrate AI technologies into makerspace activities without incurring additional costs and provide recommendations for effective selection and implementation of these tools in academic contexts.