The DeKalb Public Library introduces 309 Creative, a new makerspace and craft studio!
309 Creative is a place where patrons can unleash their imagination, express themselves through arts and crafts, and explore ideas of innovation and technology.
309 Creative will house the library’s Ultimaker 2+ 3D Printers. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers melt a plastic filament which is extruded in layers onto a build plate based on a list of coordinates created by software. Once the build is finished, the final print can be removed from the printer and then be lightly sanded, painted, or otherwise treated like any plastic model. It will also be home to a Cricut vinyl cutter and a 60-watt laser cutter/engraver. The laser cutter is a computer controlled cutting device that uses a laser to cut or engrave a design into various materials—including wood, acrylic, and glass.
Open hours for 309 Creative are as follows:
- Tuesdays from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with every third Saturday instead being from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. The first Saturday afternoon hours will be held on November 20.
Beginners and experts alike are welcome to use the makerspace during open hours. This is a place to come together and tinker, celebrate victories and learn from failures, with a dedicated library employee nearby to help you plan and execute your creative vision.
Don’t know how to use these machines? The library will provide Maker classes on 3D printing and design, craft classes using the vinyl and laser cutters, and workshops on open-sourced software that can be used to help bring your creative ideas to fruition.
But, what about computer classes? The library will continue to use the Nancy D. Collaboration Studio to hold classes on Microsoft products, Google apps, basic computer skills, graphic design software, and more. We will also continue to host classes in our Sound Studio on audio software and recording devices. Learn how to record your music, start a podcast, and more. All classes are free and open to the public.
So, decorate a birdhouse. Laser cut a keychain. 3D print a doorstop. Record a podcast. The list is endless. Just stop by 309 and get creative!