Library Lady’s K-12 Edition is a mostly weekly newsletter for K-12 school librarians.
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For many of you the school year is winding down. Check out this post for some year end ideas.
Today’s Library Lady’s tips focus on fostering another maker space ideas. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
Tips from Library Lady
Maker Space Spotlight: DIY Musical Instruments for Your School Library
Looking for a fun, low-cost addition to your maker space? Why not turn up the volume—literally! Kids love to make music, and with a few simple supplies, they can craft their own instruments and put on an unforgettable performance. These four easy-to-make musical instruments are perfect for hands-on exploration, STEAM tie-ins, and creative expression in your library.
1. Coffee Can Drums
Supplies:
- Empty coffee cans (plastic or metal)
- Construction paper
- Markers, glitter, stickers, stamps
- Tape
- Dowel rods or wooden spoons
- Fabric scraps
Instructions:
Wrap decorated construction paper around each can for visual flair. You can use the lid as the drumhead or flip the can over and use the metal bottom for a different tone. Make drumsticks by wrapping fabric around the ends of dowels or wooden spoons. Let students experiment with sounds and rhythms—they’ll love comparing tones from different surfaces.
Library Tip:
Set up a “Drum Circle” station and have students create group beats using their custom drums.
2. Kazoo Magic
Supplies:
- Empty toilet paper tubes
- Wax paper
- Rubber bands
- Scissors
Instructions:
Secure a square of wax paper over one end of the tube with a rubber band. Poke a small hole near the covered end. To play, students simply hum into the open end—instant music! Discuss sound vibrations and how kazoos modify pitch.
Library Tip:
Pair this with a quick read-aloud about sound or musical instruments to create a cross-curricular experience.
3. DIY Tambourines
Supplies:
- Two aluminum pie pans or sturdy paper/plastic plates
- Hole punch
- Ribbon or yarn
- Buttons, dried beans, or popcorn kernels
- Markers or paint for decorating
Instructions:
Punch holes around the edges of the plates and decorate the outside. Fill one plate with noise-makers like buttons or beans, then lace the plates together with ribbon. Once sealed, they’re ready to shake and rattle!
Library Tip:
Encourage kids to personalize their tambourines and use them during story time or group read-alongs.
4. Comb Buzzer Fun
Supplies:
- Pocket combs
- White tissue paper
Instructions:
Fold a piece of white tissue paper over the teeth of a comb. Hold the comb to your mouth and hum through the tissue to play. It’s a surprisingly funny and fun sound, perfect for even the youngest makers.
Library Tip:
Turn this into a mini “instrument innovation” challenge—can students improve or reimagine the comb buzzer?
Final Note for Librarians
These musical projects are more than just fun—they’re a fantastic way to introduce students to basic sound science, creativity, and collaboration. Add them to your maker space rotation or use them to support music-themed reading units. And don’t forget to schedule a “Library Jam Session” where students can perform with their creations!
Check out my book list of picture books and non fiction books about sound and music.
Want more Maker Space ideas? Check out these posts.
| Need to do some fundraising for your library? Here are some posts on my blog which describe my fundraising camps. |
Recent Adult Book Reviews
Adult Review – This Little Nowhere, Nothing Town – contemporary fiction
Recent YA Book Reviews
YA Review – Illuminary – young adult fantasy
Recent MS Book Reviews
MS Review – Reunion Crossing – middle school dystopian
Recent Kid Book Reviews
Kid Review – Mary the Missionary – early chapter book
Kid Review – Barnaby the Runaway Sheep – picture book
Author Interview
Linda Hornberg – middle school non fiction
Library Lady Blog Posts
Book List – Spring Picture Books
Items in my Shop
Teachers Pay Teachers is having a sale – my shop is included
Cute animals with books – stickers, shirts and more in my Redbubble Shop
Need some spring bookmarks. Find printable ones here – buy once print as many as you need.
What I’m Checking Out
6 of the World’s Most Unusual Libraries
8 Influential AAPI People to Teach About
Abraham Lincoln approved a balloon corps during the Civil War
Products You May Find Useful
Preschool Count and Write Activities – Price: $12 (Regularly $37), Coupon Code: SAVE25, until May 11th
Authors and librarians, would you like to have a post on this blog?
I’d like to add a couple of features to my blog in the coming months and I’d like your help. I am looking for school librarians interested in being interviewed on the blog. I am also looking for librarians and children’s or young adult authors to do guest posts on the blog. Click on the links below to fill out a survey.
Is there a way I can help you? Drop a note in the comments or shoot me an email, I’d love to help.
See you next week.
Jane (Library Lady)
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