Makerspace Programs and Workshops
Makerspaces are collections of resources: they are spaces filled with technologies, tools and toys, 3D printers, laser cutters and robotics. The idea behind makerspaces is simple: they are places where people come together to learn about technology, crafts and other kinds of making; to share knowledge and skills with others; and to apply this knowledge and skill by creating things.
Participating in Makerspace
There are different ways that you can access and participate in Makerspace:
| Planned Programs |
| Programs are events planned by Lambton County Library staff or by community groups on the theme of making. View available programs in Lambton County Library's Program Calendar. |
| Workshops |
| Workshops are training sessions for the public on how to use the various technologies safely and independently in the Makerspace. Registration is required for all workshops. View available workshops in Lambton County Library's Program Calendar. |
| Free-Play |
| Visitors can book the equipment for independent use. Examples of activities include transferring VHS family videos to DVDs, scanning photo slides into digital image files, creating gadgets with the 3-D printer, designing customized pin-back or magnet-back buttons, or making precision cuts with the laser cutter. |
| School Class/Club Visits |
| Lambton County Library welcomes classes from local schools and community groups to visit the Makerspace at the Sarnia Library. Visits can include a brief tour of the space or a making session with one class or 30 students at a time. |
Permanent Makerspace
The Sarnia Library is home to a permanent Makerspace. It provides access to a wide range of tools and resources and is host to programs and workshops related to making, Do-It-Yourself (DIY), and innovation. Most of the equipment in the Library's Makerspace is free to use with your library card; however, the Library may charge for supplies. Be sure to check with the library staff member to learn if fees are applicable before you start your project.
Permanent Makerspace Resources
| 3D Printer |
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3D printers let you print 3D objects. Ready-to-print designs can be downloaded using the Internet, or users can make their own designs using design software. Ultimaker 2+ Connect printer features a heated print bed with auto-leveling to make 3D printing accessible to everyone. 3D-Printing costs $1.00 plus $0.25 per gram. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop for the 3D Printer.
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| Button Maker |
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The button maker makes 2 ΒΌ inch buttons and buttons with a magnet backing with a few quick presses of a lever. Button making costs $0.25 per button. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop for the button maker.
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| Book Binder |
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Use the Fastback Model 20 Tape Binding System machine to securely bind your own books with heated tape. The binder will bind books with up to 350 sheets. The machine automatically counts the number of pages and directs you to use the appropriate binding strip. Book Binding costs $1.00 per binding strip. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop with the book binder.
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| Die Cutter |
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The Silhouette Cameo is an electronic cutting machine that can cut a variety of materials, like paper, vinyl, cardstock, fabric, heat transfer material and more. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop for the vinyl cutter.
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| DVD Recorder |
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Using a DVD Recorder, you can transfer your old VHS cassettes to DVD. CDs and DVDs are available to purchase for $1.00. Workshops are not required for this equipment. It is available to use any time with a reservation at Sarnia Library.
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| Laser Cutter |
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The Epilog Laser Mini 18 machine uses a thin, 30-watt beam of CO2 laser light to cut and engrave a variety of materials, like wood, acrylic, rubber, and certain plastics. The red dot pointer helps you position your projects perfectly on the cutting table. It has the ability to engrave or cut cylindrical items, like bottles or glasses with the Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment. Materials that off-gas hazardous chemicals when burned MAY NOT be used. Prohibited materials include vinyl, painted or varnished wood, or glazed tiles. Check out our list of acceptable materials for the laser cutter. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop for the laser cutter.
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| Robotics |
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Robotics is a simple way to learn about electronics, electrical conductors, computer programming, design and more. Visit the program calendar to see the next program with robotics. Check out the list of robotics we offer.
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| Sewing Machine |
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The Janome Model 5060 QDC computerized sewing machine is ideal for beginners and advanced users alike, and comes pre-programmed with 24 different types of stitches and a computerized screen that allows you to easily select your own stitching. Visit the program calendar to see the next workshop for the sewing machine.
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Mobile Makerspace
The Mobile Makerspace is a rotating collection of technologies, tools and toys, 3D printers and vinyl cutting machines. This equipment is delivered to libraries on a rotational basis and stays at that library for a period of one month for the public's use. During this time, library staff may incorporate the equipment into library programs, workshops may be offered, or it may be available for free-play.
Mobile Makerspace Schedule
| 3D Printer | Sewing Machine | Silhouette Die Cutter | Button Maker | |
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| January/February | Grand Bend Library | |||
| March/April | Brigden Library | |||
| May/June | ||||
| July/August | ||||
| September/October | Petrolia Library | |||
| November/December | Grand Bend Library |