Loudoun County is a global leader in the technology industry: up to 70 percent of the world's internet traffic passes through Loudoun County daily. Information and communications technology is the largest industry cluster in Loudoun County; it employs 23,000 people and represents 19 percent of Loudoun's private employment. Loudoun County Public Library has the opportunity to ensure that all have free and equal access to space, expertise, and resources for making and creating. Developing collaborative skills — a hallmark of maker spaces — is increasingly valuable for all citizens in our networked, global, and technologically advanced world.

The MILL initiative has developed programs, spaces and resources at the library’s eight branches.

• The MILL Studio opened in June 2015 as the first dedicated maker space, providing access to technology and expertise for exploring robotics, electronics, crafts, and video and music production, including 3D printers, Cameo Cutters, Finch robots, Arduinos and Raspberry Pi.
• The Symington Press, powered by Espresso Book Machine (EBM), allows community members to self-publish their own work.
• Portable maker kits cross the county, providing access to all.
• Partnerships with schools and community maker organizations in the region extend capacity and build important networks.

In its first year, the MILL Studio at Gum Spring Library had 6,800 visitors who used the studio; more than 30 classes included Tinkering with 3D Design, 3D Scan With Your Phone, Hour of Code, and Video Game Design. In addition, the staff worked with schools, homeschool groups and maker Meetups to reach a broad spectrum of learners. The Library is opening a new branch this fall, which will include the second MILL Studio. This branch will be a storefront location in a neighborhood with significant low-income and ESOL populations, and will provide access to important maker technology and resources.