Ignite is an arts focused makerspace located on the lower level at the Fishers location of Hamilton East Public Library in Fishers, Indiana. Ignite offers maker kits; pottery wheels; 3D printers; a laser engraver; a vinyl cutter; sewing machines and a serger; a Cricut machine; an AV studio for photography, video and sound recording projects; and four digital media labs equipped with the Adobe Creative Suite. Ignite is a space where practicing and emerging artists can work on projects using their own materials or equipment and supplies provided by Ignite. It is a multi-generational space where people can experience different media or equipment that piques their interest. Ignite’s maker-in-residence program supports local artists and promotes active learning by inviting the public to engage in hands-on experiences led by a resident maker/artist. Ignite experiences focus on active learning and self-constructed knowledge. These opportunities are connected to STEM by an emphasis on the design thinking process and participatory learning. Makers in Ignite are directed to resources and encouraged to experiment and build on their successes and failures. Ignite is connected to entrepreneurship by providing space and equipment for makers to work on prototypes and gain experience before taking their ideas to the next stage. Additionally, Ignite seeks to build community by connecting makers to each other and to new ideas. Ignite embodies innovation by embracing the concept of user-defined space within the framework of the library’s mission and guiding principles.

• Makers are required to attend certification classes to use the 3D printer, vinyl cutter, and laser engraver. Makers who have completed these classes go on to reserve the equipment to make their own projects from game boards and pieces to sculpture to holiday gifts.
• Visitors who participate in the Maker-in-Residence experiences are learning skills and techniques to make their own projects from inquiry during open studio sessions and hands-on instruction during structured classes.
• Drop-in activities and Quick Start sessions are helping makers explore new media or get started using unfamiliar equipment.
• Students who visit Ignite during field trips learn about the maker movement and participate in a team-building maker challenge.
• The local arts community benefits from opportunities to display art in juried exhibits in Ignite, apply for the maker-in-residence program and partner with Ignite for community arts events.