Library’s new makerspace keeps safety at forefront

SAN ANGELO — Tom Green County officials approved usage policies and safety guidelines just weeks ahead of the grand opening of the new STEAM Central makerspace in the basement of the Stephens Central Library.

STEAM is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math, and about 2,500 square feet of basement space has been converted into a workshop area for making and learning. It’s packed with equipment ranging from handsaws and barbed felting needles to laser cutters and quilting machines and everything in between.

“We have policies on everything here. You have to have a good balance,” said Clint Hudson, maker-in-residence for STEAM Central. The policies have to be flexible enough so library members are not deterred from using the equipment, but at the same time be restrictive enough to keep the public safe, he said.