New in January: Makery users will have access to 30 tickets per calendar month to use for free materials for projects. Ticket values vary depending on the material. Get the details about this new ticket system.
You choose what to create; we help make it happen in the Main Library Creative Studio! Patrons ages 14+ can work on self-directed projects, while ages 13 and under require an adult caregiver. See examples of what is being created.
From anywhere: Submit a 3D or poster print request (available anytime)
- 3D printing: Upload your 3D printing request.
- Poster printing: You send the file; we print it for you.
Makery: Drop in during open hours to design, print & produce (available 5 days a week)
Everything is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Machines are powered down and tools are collected 10 minutes before the end of each open-hours session. Free materials are available using the new Makery ticket system (ticket values vary depending on the material). No storage space is available for projects; all projects must be taken with you at the end of each session.
- Button maker: Design and press 2.25-inch pin-back buttons.
- Cutting plotters (Cricut & Cameo): DIY equipment and software to design and cut materials—including sticky vinyl, heat transfer vinyl, and cardstock.
- Laminator: Protect and preserve documents using a thermal laminator (laminating pouches available using Makery tickets, outside materials must be approved by staff).
- Laser cutter (Glowforge): Design and cut, score, or engrave approved materials, including plywood, hardwoods, and acrylics.
- Sewing machine: Sew fabric with the Brother XM2701.
- Sublimation printer & heat presses: Put full-color designs or even photographs on items like mugs and t-shirts.
Makery open hours
| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY | SUNDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | 2-6 pm | 10 am-6 pm | 10 am-6 pm | 1-5 pm | — | 12-5 pm |
Media Lab: Make a reservation to record, edit & preserve (available during Main Library hours)
These media stations are do-it-yourself environments; the Audio Booth requires library staff-led training before your first reservation.
- Audio Booth: Record and edit music and podcasts in this acoustically treated space.
- Media Stations: Digitize and preserve different types of media—such as VHS tapes, cassette tapes, film negatives, and more—and edit photos, graphics, video, and audio.
Times you can make a reservation at the Main Library
| MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY | SUNDAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 am-8:30 pm | 9 am-8:30 pm | 9 am-8:30 pm | 9 am-8:30 pm | 9 am-5:30 pm | 9 am-4:30 pm | 12-4:30 pm |
Learn how to use what’s inside
Interested in learning more about how to use the Creative Studio?
The Creative Studio was made possible in part through a $25,000 grant from the Illinois State Library, thanks to the advocacy of State Representative La Shawn K. Ford. We are grateful for his continued support of our library!