Chandler is a City of limitless innovation. The debut of Chandler Public Library’s new makerspace is the latest addition to the City’s continued commitment to making Chandler a world-class STEAM city.
The Makery is a state-of-the-art space where the community can turn an idea into reality, develop a product or start a business, and create something they only dared to dream up – all while growing their own skills and finding their passions.
“Inside each of us, there’s an idea waiting to be born, a passion ready to be explored, or a skill set to be learned,” said Stacey Akahoshi, Librarian, who oversees the new space. “By combining digital technology with traditional tools, we’re finding cutting-edge ways to make things, solve problems, and learn by doing. This is the future of making, and it’s yours to create.”
Located on the second floor of the Downtown Library, the 981 square foot creative space is outfitted with three inventive areas: The Programming Room, The Lab, and The Studio. Upon completion of mandatory orientation sessions, makers will have access to emerging technology and traditional fabrication equipment.
Designed to facilitate active learning, prototyping, tinkering, and community-driven or self-directed projects, The Programming Room features collaborative worktables, iPads and Apple Pencils, Apple TV, and many other maker tools. It’s perfect for connecting with like-minded innovators and socializing with friends. To help creatives replenish creative juices and revive their inspiration, the room also offers a fun break away with board games and a PlayStation 4.
With top-of-the-line 3D printing technology, The Lab features equipment to create anything from small toys to useful everyday items – the only limit is your imagination. Makers can explore endless possibilities for creating with the Circuit, Glowforge, Matter & 3D Scanner, and more. For traditional crafters, eight Janome sewing machines are available and perfect for making apparel, pillows, and handbags.
The Studio is soundproof and stocked with multimedia space for creating audio and video content. The audio production equipment can be used to record podcasts, interviews, and music performances, while the video production equipment provides an all-in-one space for recording performances, presentations, and much more.
“We are proud to offer these incredible tools and resources in a space that helps our community unleash their potential,” said Rachelle Kuzyk, Library Manager. “The Makery will enhance the library’s ability to create learning opportunities for all in a rapidly evolving creative, scientific, and technical landscape.”
Supported by the Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records, a division of the Secretary of State with federal funds the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act grant, Chandler Public Library invested $177,073.02 in the creation of this transformational space.
The Makery opens to the public Tuesday, Oct. 12 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house celebration of exploration, collaboration and innovation.