The Makerspace at Douglass Branch

THE MAKERSPACE is a new innovative space inside of the Douglass Branch Library. With 315 square feet, The Makerspace provides amazing opportunities for learning and creativity! The space includes a recording booth and equipment, 3D printer, Glowforge Aura laser cutter, Cricut machine, and   sewing machines. Gaming and virtual reality stations will be available in the Douglass Branch meeting room. 

The Makerspace hosts Creative Workshops in the evening for adults, afterschool programs for children and teens, and open hours on weekends for all ages.

Open Hours

Drop-in: 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month from 12-3 pm.

In addition to library  programs for adults and afterschool activities for children and teens, we also offer one-on-one assistance  with Makerspace tools and resources. To schedule a Book-a-Librarian appointment, call 217/403-2090 or reserve online .

Equipment + Creative Tools

• Glowforge Aura Laser Cutter
• Sewing Machines
• Gaming Stations
• Recording Booth
• Cricut  Cutter
• Cricut Mug Press
• Cricut Heat Press
• 3D Printer 

Creative Workshops for Adults

Looking for creative workshops for adults? You can create something new, connect with creatives, learn to use Makerspace    tools, and get your tech questions answered at evening workshops in The Makerspace. Held on the third Wednesday of every month, workshops will have a rotating focus of Cricut, Glowforge Aura laser cutter, and sewing machines. We supply all materials for library workshops.

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Reservations

You can reserve Makerspace tools and recording booths  for  up to 2 hours at a time.

What is available to reserve? 

• Glowforge Aura Laser Cutter
• Sewing Machines
• Recording Booth
• Cricut   Cutter
• Cricut Mug Press
• Cricut Heat Press

The recording booth provides sound dampening and is equipped with a mac computer, speakers, mic, headphones, and keyboard.

Reservations are available during weekend hours.  Available May 3.

First-time user? Schedule a Book-a-Librarian appointment or connect with a staff member, prior to your reservation time.

Materials + Pricing

Colored vinyl, tote bags, wood, and acrylic – When you use The Makerspace during library workshops, we supply all materials. The rest of the time, you’ll be able to purchase some supplies. The Makerspace is stocked with materials for customizing your projects, including vinyl sheets for the Cricut, wood and acrylic for the laser cutter, and poster paper. If you bring your own materials, library staff will need to approve before use.

This incredible project was made possible through funding from the Friends of the Library, the Foundation, and a $50,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).