A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to tour 3 Elementary Media Centers who have incorporated TinkerSpaces : Eastview ES, Goldwood Primary, Copopa ES. All three had some similarities, and obviously some differences.
First, they all had to "weed" out some books to make space for materials. I know that is difficult, I still have textbooks from college. All added lots of different building materials to give students many choices. All talked about having structure for the students to follow. They still had reading time, still checked books in and out. They would love to see their students for more time than they currently do ; the students would love more tinkering time. They all used a variety of funding/sources for materials (donations, grants, district funds). One has a 3D printer that has been working hard, most recently printing snowflake designs. They vary in what tech tools they have for students. They work with teachers the teachers to varying degrees on lessons.
1) Totes. LOTTA TOTES!!! Storage
2) anything to build with... paper, Lego's, Lincoln Logs, blocks , keva planks, straws, magna tiles...so many things available (just check out Amazon)
Some pictures might help :
