We are excited to announce the expansion of the Maker Lab, which occurred during the summer, and provides more space for students to design and work. The renovated Maker Lab offers expanded areas for woodworking, laser cutting, sewing and fiber arts, and electronics.
Woodworking – The updates in this area include improved sound-dampening acoustic ceiling tiles that block loud sounds, reducing noise in other areas of the library. The dust collection system was also upgraded to better contain sawdust and keep the entire space clean and safe.
Laser Cutting – The laser cutter is one of the most used tools in the Maker Lab, often reserved every hour of the day for weeks at a time. In an effort to provide more opportunity for students to be creative we purchased an additional laser cutter.
Sewing and Fiber Arts – Previously, the sewing and electronics space was a shared space, but now has its own work areas, which allows for more space to accommodate donated fabrics and sewing supplies. Included in the sewing area is the vinyl cutting station and heat press, which stays busy with students designing and making their own custom t-shirt designs.
Electronics – The electronics area is new to the Maker Lab and offers Arduino microprocessors or Raspberry Pi micro computers for simple programming projects.
Bicycle Repair – This addition was made in response to student requests, from those who depend on their bicycle as a primary mode of transportation and need a way to maintain and keep their bicycles operational. The Maker Lab provides tools for adjusting and repairing all parts of a bicycle, including a shop repair stand and wheel truing stand.