Build a Better Book

About

The Build a Better Book project, based at the University of Colorado Boulder, works with school and library Makerspaces to engage youth in the design and fabrication of accessible picture books and graphics. Using both low- and high-tech Makerspace tools, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, Makey Makeys, conductive boards and craft materials, youth design, fabricate, test and refine multi-modal books, games and STEM graphics that incorporate tactile and audio features. These products are designed by and for learners with visual impairments as well as other physical and learning disabilities. Through the Build a Better Book initiative, middle and high school youth develop technology skills and learn about STEM careers as they design and create accessible, multi-modal picture books, graphics and games that can be seen, touched and heard!

Current Partners

University of Colorado Boulder

• College of Engineering and Applied Science (Dept. of Computer Science)
• CU Science Discovery
• School of Education

Public Libraries

• AnyThink Libraries (Thornton, CO)
• Boulder Public Library
• Charlotte Mecklenburg Public Library (NC)
• Jefferson County Public Library (Golden, CO)
• Louisville Public Library
• Mamie Dowd Eisenhower Public LIbrary (Broomfield, CO)
• Pueblo Library District
• White Plains Public Library (NY)

Central Michigan University

• Center for Excellence in STEM Education

Colorado Center for the Blind (Littleton, CO)

Build a Better Book is supported by the National Science Foundation (ITEST grant #1615247; 2016-19) and the CU Boulder Office of Outreach and Engagement.