Library District Opens Public Maker Space for Creative Projects
Need a laser engraver to create a wooden sign for a business? Have an idea for a vinyl sign to promote an event, or to wear on a T-shirt? Itching to turn your idea for a tool into 3D reality?
You can do it at the new Edge Maker Space in the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library, 397 E. Central St.
Use of the Maker Space, including tours to get acquainted with the equipment, is by appointment only by calling the Edge at 417-837-5011. Fees charged for materials. During social distancing, only one maker and staff person at a time will be allowed to work in the space.
The Springfield-Greene County Library District opened it with grants -- $8,018 from the Library Services and Technology Act, and $8,000 from the Friends of the Library. The project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
This marks the library district’s first formal maker space, centers where individuals can gather to get creative with DIY projects, invent new ones and share ideas. The Edge has had a 3D printer for public use.
“The Maker Space is designed to continue the library’s mission of enabling lifelong learning and enrichment,” said library training coordinator Krissy Sinor. “We did some research to determine the types of equipment that might have the most appeal for our community; technology that might be out of reach for many due to costs, accessibility, etc.” She hopes area nonprofits, small business owners, genealogists and students will find it especially helpful for their projects.
Here’s what’s inside:
- A new 3D printer, in addition to the current printer, that allows a user to print simultaneously if they need to.
- A laser engraver for creating all kinds of craftwork on a variety of materials including acrylic, wood and leather.
- A vinyl cutter that will cut letters, shapes, and almost any design the maker can come up with to create terrific signs, lettering, logos, etc., that can then be applied to a variety of surfaces. There’s a rainbow of colors available in regular vinyl. There’s also a small amount of heat transfer vinyl if someone wants to make iron-on transfers for T-shirts or bags. They can use the heat press to create the finished product.
- Two soldering stations
- A film and slide scanner, and a video capture box, to help preserve photographs.
Sinor added, “We are so excited and proud to bring this to our community. We can’t wait to see what they make.”
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