As the center of learning for a diverse and inclusive community, CPL is committed to providing an environment for learning that limits no one and includes everyone. Closing the digital divide that exists in our community is a strategic priority of the Library. CPL is working to remain at the forefront of our profession in the areas of technology and hands-on learning. We recognize the impact that the digital revolution has had on the ability of people to access critical information. Initially this meant having computer workstations and internet connections. Now this includes access to equipment and to software that is unaffordable to most individuals, but readily available at large corporations and within university facilities. The digital divide still exists when people are limited in access to tools by their connections. MakerSpace is providing CPL patrons with a new approach to 21st Century skill-building by providing them with the equipment, services, and personnel to access much-needed technology and training. MakerSpace was designed for two primary purposes: to offer inspiration for people to unleash their creativity and to foster the entrepreneurial spirit. MakerSpace is unique in that it not only offers access to equipment and software, but also the staff with the expertise and time to mentor people in bringing their ideas to life.

MakerSpace was designed to complement and build upon the already diverse offerings available in TechCentral, an innovative technology and learning center that opened in 2012. TechCentral has since spawned many other initiatives that would not have been possible without it. A few months after TechCentral opened, CPL added the first of two 3D printers. Shortly after, the library began offering “maker labs,” classes where people could learn to do things such as run the 3D printers, create kaleidoscope art or compose digital rock music. By September 2013, we were offering up to 16 “maker labs” each month, at both our Main Library and rotating through our branches. The popularity of these “maker labs” led to MakerSpace which offers a wider lineup of tools that patrons can pursue on their own time. MakerSpace opened in January 2014 and is now its own room within TechCentral that is loaded with equipment that creative and entrepreneurial library patrons can use to bring their ideas to life. It features cutting-edge technology, including Photography, Videography, and Graphics Design equipment, a Laser Engraving and Cutting Machine, a 3D printer, Vinyl Cutting Machine, and Music Recording and Production equipment. The library offers tutorials for each tool, and staff members are available to offer assistance. The uses of MakerSpace include creating something physical, such as a prototype for a new product, a sign for a business or something you could sell at a craft show. While we encourage entrepreneurs to expand their business ideas, we also support people coming in to engrave a personal item or just to hang out and experiment with the equipment. MakerSpace has the potential to continue expanding throughout our system. In June, CPL is opening two TechCentral satellite locations at our branches. Based on their success, additional MakerSpaces may not be far behind.

TechCentral and now MakerSpace are setting a precedent in the City of Cleveland for digital literacy. Together these spaces are responding to community needs and improving traditional library services. The introduction of MakerSpace is widening the appeal of TechCentral by offering learner-centered experiences that allow people to discover and deepen interests while engaging with peers, mentors and other resources. The best outcome of MakerSpace to date is how people are coming in, using it and sharing what they've learned or already know with other users of the space. In the first three months, approximately 241 users have accessed the space. We have regulars that are now so comfortable with the equipment that they are taking ownership of it – vacuuming the laser engraver after each use and changing the plastic filament in the 3D printers. This participatory learning experience became even greater at the beginning of April when we began an internship program with Cleveland’s MC2 STEM High School. One lesson we immediately learned with the opening of MakerSpace was how much staff time was needed to introduce people to the equipment and bring them up to speed on the potential uses. Now, our internship program allows us to have 2 additional people in the lab at all times. This rotating experience allows 2 students, ten weeks to develop interpersonal skills while adhering to their fabrication and software curriculum. For the Library, we can offer patrons access to a person with in-depth knowledge of the equipment that has extended time to spend with them.