Makerspace

What is the Makerspace?

Two people looking at a white 3D Printer in Central Library's Makerspace

CCPL's Makerspace is a collaborative environment designed for individuals to work on a wide range of projects. Whether you are interested in computer programming, robot building, sewing, or jewelry making, our space is the perfect place to make your ideas a reality.

Our makerspace is equipped with a variety of tools and resources, including 3D printers, software, electronics, and craft tools. You are invited to explore and learn in this hands-on environment, where creativity and innovation are encouraged. Whether you prefer to work alone or with a team, our makerspace provides a space for both individual creation and collaboration.

The makerspace offers support for a variety of creative endeavors, including 3D printing and prototyping, laser cutting, woodworking, knitting and sewing, paper and vinyl cutting, as well as assorted multimedia projects.

So come and join us at CCPL's Makerspace, where you can unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life! Bring your own project or start one at the library today.

Want to learn more about the Makerspace?

Work one-on-one with a librarian to learn and explore any topic that interests you through our "Your Personal Librarian" service.

Open Lab at Central Library

Hours
Thursday's 5-7 p.m. and Third Saturday's 1-4 p.m.

Details

  • Open labs are limited to 10 attendees at a time.
  • Attendees must have a CCPL library card and sign a waiver the first time they visit.
  • Attendees must be older than 14 or be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Available Equipment

  • Dremel 3D45 3D printer
  • Glowforge laser cutter
  • Silhouette Cameo vinyl cutter
  • Singer sewing machine (2)
  • Brother 1034D serger
  • 1.25in button maker

The makerspace Ettrick-Matoaca Library is open by appointment only - to make an appointment visit the library or call (804)751-CCPL (2275).

3D Printing

teen looking at 3D printer

Chesterfield County Public Library locations offer 3D printers for library customers.

The library’s 3D printers use plastic filament that print or form solid objects. The filament is a polylactic acid, or PLA, which is made from renewable resources such as corn starch.
Customers have used the 3D printers to create toys, artwork, jewelry, parts for building robots and components for prosthetic hands.

Call 804-751-2275 to make an appointment to use a 3D printer. A library card is required to use 3D printers.

3D Printers Available at Library Locations

Bon Air Library1- Dremel 3D45
Central Library3- Dremel 3D45
Chester Library1- Dremel 3D45
Clover Hill Library1- Dremel 3D45
Enon Library1- Dremel 3D45
Ettrick-Matoaca Library1- Dremel 3D45
1- Ultimaker 2 Plus (temporarily unavailable)
LaPrade Library1- Dremel 3D45
Meadowdale Library1- Dremel 3D45
North Courthouse Road Library2- Dremel 3D45

Support the Makerspace

If you are interested in supporting our makerspace through donation of materials, time or money, please contact Matt Neer, Central Library Assistant Branch Manager, by phone (804) 768-7966 or by email [email protected].