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 and read more about the studio’s first year »
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 (quantities vary by equipment). No storage space is available for projects; all projects must be taken with you at the end of each session.
New! Button maker: Design and press 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 (up to five pouches provided a month, outside materials must be approved by staff).
Laser cutter (Glowforge): Design and cut, score, or engrave approved materials including plywood, hardwoods, and acrylics.
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!
