As part of my teen area Makerspace, I want to buy a number of iPads. Here is some of the information I have been putting together to discuss the who, what, when, where and why of it for my library administration. The iPad can be used in a variety of ways to incorporate more technology in teen programming, from gaming to teaching things like photo manipulation and creating short films. You can also use it as a platform for your library’s social media such as Tumblr and Instagram.

Basic iPad Information:

iPad comparison chart: http://www.apple.com/ipad/compare/#comparison-chart

This information will help you compare and contrast things like cost, storage capacity and more.

Things you can do with an iPad Tech Lab:

Teach and create a variety of photo manipulation techniques. These photos can then be used in house for display purposes, in marketing materials, and share via social media. They can be incorporated into bookmarks, posters, flyers, end cap displays and more.

• Basic gaming
• Create a variety of videos which can be shared and used both in house and online using apps like iMovies, Stop Motion or basic GIF apps life GIFfer.
• Pair with the Lego Makerspace to create a variety of Lego based activities to combine tech with Lego fun. Adds variety to Lego Makerspace.
• Produce and share music
• Engage in social media marketing with teen audience

Apps of Interest

Basic Apps you’ll want to have downloaded: Instagram, Vine, YouTube, Tumblr, Twitter

Gaming Apps

Minecraft Pocket Edition

Price point: $6.99

The popular game brought to iPad, not a full version

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/minecraft-pocket-edition/id479516143?mt=8

For further investigation: 70 Best iPad Games New for 2015 http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/best-ipad-games/

Photo Manipulation Tools

GIFFER

Price point: $2.99

The animated gif app, use to make GIF or short stop motion pictures. Easily upload photos.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/giffer-the-animated-gif-app/id416952536?mt=8

App review post with examples: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2014/10/app-review-lego-makerspace-fun-giffer-using-legos-to-tell-stories-and-learn-how-to-make-gifs/

Be Funky

Price Point: Basic app is free, but I bought the additional packages which included several effects. Similarly, the basic online service is free but there is an upgrade option.

What you can do:

• Edit your photo, including cut and paste and several beauty edits
• Add effects
• Add frames
• Add text
• Create a collage (which can be used in combination with the Pop Art effect and speech bubbles to create a graphic novel/comic book page)

Info Page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/befunky-photo-editor-collage/id442716817?mt=8

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2015/05/tech-talk-app-review-befunky/

Photo Shake

Price point: $1.99

Easily upload photos and do a variety of things with them. I have used it to make book marks, grid pictures and more. Can be printed for in house use or shared on social media.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/photoshake!/id389104355?mt=8

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2011/07/generate-marketing-creativity-with-iphone-apps/

Word Foto

Price point: $1.99

Creates a word collage using a photo. I have used it to make end cap signage. Also great for sharing via social media.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wordfoto/id414002091

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2011/07/generate-marketing-creativity-with-iphone-apps/

Over

Price point: $1.99

Add text to photos.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/over/id535811906?mt=8

Adobe PS Express

Price point: Free

Upload and edit photos in a variety of ways.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/adobe-photoshop-express/id331975235?mt=8

Comic Book

Price point: $2.99

Upload photos and add various embellishments to make comic book pages.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/comicbook!/id436114747?mt=8

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2011/07/generate-marketing-creativity-with-iphone-apps/

PocketBooth

Price point: $0.99

A mini photo booth that creates photo strips.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pocketbooth/id385145330

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2011/07/generate-marketing-creativity-with-iphone-apps/

Photo in Word

Price point: $0.99

Create words that are filled with your photos.

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/photo-in-word-pro/id513227128?mt=8

Previously discussed on TLT: http://www.teenlibrariantoolbox.com/2011/07/generate-marketing-creativity-with-iphone-apps/

Motion Picture Tools

Stop Motion

Price point: $0.99

Easy to use and make stop motion pictures

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/stop-motion/id552326107?mt=8

iMovie

Price point: $4.99

Make trailers and movies

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/imovie/id377298193?mt%3D8

Music Tools

Spotify

Price point: Free

Use to make book playlists

Info page: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spotify/id324684580?mt=8

To investigate further: http://ipad.about.com/od/musical-accessories/tp/The-Best-iPad-Apps-For-Musicians.htm

Coding

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/7-apps-teaching-children-coding-anna-adam

More on Ipads in Libraries:

20 Coolest iPad Ideas for Your Library – OnlineCollege.org

Integrating iPads and Tablets into Library Services

There’s a Maker Faire in That iPad! 10 Ways to Create …

iPads in the Makerspace! | The GCAA Makerspace

For all of our tech posts, check out the Tech Talk index

Now it’s your turn: If you have other apps that you use and recommend, please share with us in the comments!