The business case of FryskLab, Europe’s first mobile library FabLab

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the emergence of the mobile library FabLab FryskLab, a project of Bibliotheekservice Fryslân (BSF). There will be special attention on how the business case has been established. Design/methodology/approach – The author examines the broader development of (mobile) FabLabs in libraries. Based on the description of sub-projects that together make the project FryskLab the approach of BSF is described. Findings – The design of a mobile library lab speaks to many people’s imagination. However, achieving a sound business case requires a lot more than just driving around in a bus and providing practical workshops. Developing supporting projects is necessary. Originality/value – At this time most publications on mobile library makerspaces are held in the realm of popular publications (blogs, magazines). Very little has been written on a wider range of case studies where mobile library makerspaces have been integrated into library services. This paper serves as an insight on how BSF developed the FryskLab project.