Makerspace

The Makerspace is located on the second floor of the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library.

Discover and learn to use technology in the second floor's makerspace area. From sewing and other traditional crafts to cutting edge 3D printing, the Downtown Library offers something for both the experienced and aspiring makers. Training is provided by Library staff. Use of the makerspace is free to library cardholders. Bring designs to life with STEM-focused technology in the Tinker Room. This space features 3D printers, a milling machine, vinyl cutter, a plotter printer, and a variety of small devices and tools. Create wearable, usable pieces of art in the Innovate Room, featuring sewing, quilting and embroidery machines that offer a range of options for working with fabric. A heat press is also available.

Makers must be an APL cardholder. Before using makerspace equipment for the first time, users must complete a Maker Waiver Form, present a valid library card, and a photo ID. Visitors must always check in with Library staff within the makerspace, with their library card or photo ID. Makers are expected to abide by Makerspace Usage Guidelines and any applicable Library Policies at all times. Certain machines will require training and certification before use. You can review training materials and learn more about a machine by clicking below.

Makerspace Event & Class Calendar

Click on the link above for a full list of all upcoming events taking place in the makerspace. If an event is taking place in the Tinker or Innovate room. It will be closed to the public for the duration of the program.

General Makerspace Guidelines

• Follow the rules for each piece of equipment or area
• Wear closed toed shoes
• Report any unsafe behavior, injuries or malfunctioning equipment to Library staff immediately
• Do not take equipment out of Makerspace
• Clean and return any item to its proper storage when not in use
• Clean up before leaving an area
• It is your responsibility to use the proper safety equipment for your project.
• Makerspace users are required to review Makerspace Usage Guidelines and fill out the Accident Waiver form at the bottom of the page prior to use.

Current Operational Hours

• Mondays: Closed 
• Tuesdays: 12 p.m.-8 p.m. 
• Wednesdays: 12 p.m.-6 p.m. 
• Thursdays: 12 p.m.-8 p.m. 
• Fridays:  10 a.m.-6 p.m. 
• Saturdays: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 
• Sundays: 2 - 6 p.m.

*Please check the calendar, rooms in the Makerspace; are unavailable when reserved for programs or classes.

Calendar 
Click on the link above for a full list of all upcoming events taking place in the makerspace. If an event is taking place in the Tinker or Innovate room, it will be closed to the public for the duration of the program.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I need to do to use the makerspace?
  A valid APL library card is required to use the makerspace. You must review the Makerspace Usage Guidelines and Accident Waiver Form prior to using the makerspace for the first time. Training and certification for each machine are required prior to use. You can find the training materials by clicking on the machine you would like to be certified for. 
• Is filament available?
  Filament is available for purchase for .20 cents per gram.
• What kind of materials can be used on the milling machine?
  Materials and sizes allowed for this machine can be found here: http://carvey-instructions.inventables.com/materials/
• Are any materials available?
  Patrons must provide their own materials. We suggest purchasing at www.inventables.com
• Is embroidery software available?
  The embroidery machine is equipped with Brother PE 10 Design Embroidery Software
• Do I need to bring my own needles or thread?
  Patrons will need to bring their own thread and fabric. We have basic needles available for use. If a specialty needle is needed, such as a twin needle, the patron would need to supply their own.
• What sewing tools do you have available?
  Pins, rotary cutter, cutting mat, fabric scissors, and other basic tools are available for use.
• What feet do you have for your machines?
  We have standard machine attachments available. Walking, piping or any other specialty feet will need to be supplied by the patron.
• Is paper available for the plotter printer or do I need to bring my own?
  Plotter paper is available for $7 per linear foot. 
• Is vinyl for the Cricut machine supplied?
  Patrons must supply their own vinyl for the machine.
• What size is the vinyl cutter?
  The vinyl cutter uses 24" rolls of vinyl.
• Do you have a longarm quilting machine?
  We have a Babylock Tiara III