Following its recent renovation, the Concord Public Library’s new makerspace will be opening its doors this June in the Heywood-Benjamin House addition.
Makerspace Coordinator Christiana Urbano defined the new and increasingly popular concept of makerspaces as a “collaborative workspace where you can share tools and equipment as well as experience.”
“The Workshop” will offer free classes and resources to anyone interested. From 3D printers and laser cutters, to sewing machines and crochet materials, to Macbook Pro computers complete with Adobe programs installed, there is something for everyone in the makerspace.
For those looking to try something new or pick up a new hands-on hobby but aren’t ready to make the financial commitment of investing in tools or equipment, the makerspace is the perfect place to start.
“It lets us take the burden off of you of investment,” said Urbano.
Accessibility and “ease of entry” has been a priority for planning and organizing “The Workshop.” The team behind the makerspace has been putting together tutorial videos for each machine and tool offered to ensure that it’s no problem for most to get to creating.
“You don’t need a master’s degree in engineering to walk in the door,” Urbano assures the curious.
Incorporated throughout the modern decor and high-tech equipment of “The Workshop” are original elements from the historic Heywood-Benjamin House. The antique wooden door and shingled walls are a reminder of the previous history of the space.
This kind of intergenerational connection is a goal of “The Workshop.” The makerspace is for both kids and adults. According to Urbano, the programs that will be offered there were designed with a multigenerational link in mind.
The library plans to structure the space through classes, reserving rooms and tools online, as well as preserving sensory friendly hours that provide a more peaceful environment without the noise of the laser cutting machine.
Urbano, who helped to start and run the makerspace at the Brookline Public Library, noted “There’s so many talented folks that live here, it’s giving people a space to share what they know.”
