Creative Learning with Loose Parts in Your Library or Makerspace
Transform your library or makerspace into a hub of creativity and hands-on learning with loose parts play. This guide covers everything you need to get started—from finding affordable materials to organizing your collection and inspiring imaginative exploration among your students.
Are you curious about incorporating loose parts play into your school library or makerspace? That’s fantastic! I started using loose parts in my library many years ago, and I’ve never looked back. Every time I set up a loose parts center, I’m blown away by the creativity and imagination my students bring to the table. Each child brings a unique perspective, and they always exceed my expectations!
What Are Loose Parts?
If you're new to the concept, you might be wondering: what exactly are loose parts?
Loose parts are open-ended materials that children can move, carry, combine, take apart, and put back together in countless ways. They encourage hands-on exploration, critical thinking, and imaginative play. The concept of loose parts promotes creativity, problem-solving, and independence—perfect for any STEM learning environment.
Loose parts are materials that can be moved, carried, combined, redesigned, lined up, and taken apart and put back together in multiple ways. The idea of 'loose parts' uses materials to empower a creative imagination. (Source)
Where to Find Loose Parts for Your Library?
You don’t have to spend a fortune to start your own loose parts collection. Here are some great places to look:
Discarded materials in your school or home (buttons, bottle caps, cardboard tubes, etc.)
You favourite Dollar Store
Amazon (search for “loose parts for kids”)
Facebook Marketplace and local buy/sell groups
Ask families to donate clean, safe items they no longer need
How to Organize Loose Parts in a Library or Makerspace?
One of the most common questions I get is: How do you organize all those loose parts?
Keeping your collection tidy doesn’t have to be complicated! I store most of my loose parts in clear plastic bins. This makes it easy for both me and my students to see what’s inside—no need to label everything unless you want to! Transparent containers help streamline cleanup and make it easy for kids or my Library Team to return items to the correct place.
For small items like buttons, beads, or rubber bands, I often use Ziploc bags and then group those bags inside a larger bin. This way, similar materials stay together, and I can easily rotate collections in and out as needed.
Other great organization ideas for loose parts:
Drawer carts with clear trays
Over-the-door shoe organizers for lightweight items
Muffin tins or divided trays for sorting during play
Loose Parts Belong in the Library
You might be wondering: Why bring loose parts into a library setting?
I was inspired to use loose parts in the library after witnessing their part in students learning in the Kindergarten classes at my school. I saw students engaged while learning through play, and using their knowledge and imagination to expand and display their understanding. (I was especially inspired by my friend and co-worker Amanda from Creative Kindergarten - be sure to check out her amazing Kindergarten ideas here!)
Ideas for incorporating loose parts in your library:
Building narrative and retelling stories
Practicing teamwork and communications
Demonstrating Science or Social Studies concepts
Design and Visual Arts activities
Developing fine motor and spatial reasoning skills
Loose Parts Gallery
Ready to Dive In?
Starting a loose parts center in your school library might feel a little messy at first, but trust me—it’s worth it. You’ll watch your students grow in creativity, confidence, and collaboration every single day. I hope this post gave you some inspiration to use loose parts in your library!
When you get started, be sure to tag me on Instagram so I can see your fun! @booksandbytes
