Story & Photos by Marianne Salza
Winthrop Public Library & Museum offered its inaugural Makerspace on November 15, opening a designated area on the third floor for patrons to gather and create using complimentary library resources.
“We’re really excited,” beamed Liz Telmosse, Children’s Library. “We’re hoping people come in, create, and use their imagination.”
Liz Telmosse and Diane Stangle looking on.
The Makerspace is equipped with tools to help execute one’s artistic ideas such as a sewing machine, spindles for spinning yarn, a heat press to transfer designs onto t-shirts, bags, coffee mugs, or hats, and a button press that makes 2 ½ -inch pins.
Library patron, Dave Juengst, was the first Makerspace participant. He was eager to build a prototype of his toy design using perforated paper cutouts printed from the library’s Cricut printer and cutting machine.
“When I saw that there was going to be a Makerspace, and they had all these resources open to me, it seemed like a no-brainer. I got all the help I needed and was able to make the design,” said Juengst. “This place is great, and I’m not having to spend thousands of dollars on equipment. The library saves the day.”
The library has a closet full of materials from origami paper to bracelet making supplies – and attendees are welcome to bring their own provisions, as well.
Fiber artist, Diane Stangle, who works in the children’s library section, is available to assist attendees interested in knitting. She hopes that in the beginning of the new year, the library will offer more opportunities for knitters and spinners to gather.
The library’s initial plans are to open the Makerspace twice a month, with the next Makerspace day being on Saturday, November 23, 12-2pm. Stangle and Telmosse hope to expand the program in January to include workshops and classes, and open the space for crafting clubs to schedule meetings.
“This is our launching point, and it’s just going to get bigger and better,” said Telmosse. Adults and children 12 years of age and older are encouraged to explore the Makerspace. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. Visit www.WinthropPublicLibrary.org/Maker-Space/ for updated information about programs and crafting clubs.