A makerspace is an area intended to help its users express their creativity by crafting, building and designing whatever they can imagine. Typical amenities include 3-D printers that can create useful items out of plastic, cameras and microphones that can be used for creating videos or podcasts, computers with design and editing software, and even more mundane implements of creation such as art supplies and sewing machines. Makerspaces are becoming an increasingly frequent sight at public libraries, giving patrons a chance to use equipment they may not have the resources, space or opportunity to own themselves.
Here are five makerspaces offered at suburban libraries. Some require reservations and 3-D print jobs usually need to be submitted in advance, so call ahead or go to their websites before a visit. Users may need to purchase materials for printing and…
