SDG Library’s Finch MakerLab installs latest technology and equipment for public use

Photo Caption:
SDG Library Board members celebrate the newly installed equipment at the Finch MakerLab by creating personalized notebooks, mugs and tote bags. Top row, from left to right: James Alguire, public trustee; Jo-Anne McCaslin, public trustee; Jason Broad, mayor of South Dundas; Francois Landry, mayor of North Stormont.
Bottom row, from left to right: Margaret MacDonald, chair and public trustee; Lachlan McDonald, mayor of South Glengarry.
 

SDG Counties, Ont.— SDG Library’s Finch MakerLab has installed cutting-edge equipment for public use, including a 3D printer, laser cutter/engraver, sublimation printer, resin printer and mug press.

The Finch MakerLab is half traditional library and half creators dream, designed as a hub for do-it-yourself projects that encourage creativity and exploration. SDG Counties residents may now use newly installed, high-tech equipment by booking an appointment via phone, email or online form. Examples of projects include a personalized t-shirt, an engraved hammer or a family photo mug.

To celebrate, SDG Library is hosting free programs each Wednesday of the month beginning May 8. During “May-ker Month,” explore and become familiarized with the newly installed equipment by designing a mug on May 8, a tote bag on May 15, a sublimation bookmark on May 22, and a notebook on May 29 any time between 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Staff will be present to demonstrate the process and answer any questions about the MakerLab. Please register online at SDG Library’s website to reserve a spot (Direct link: sdglibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/events?q=may-ker&locations=8).

By eliminating the initial equipment investment cost for SDG Counties residents, the SDG Library hopes to provide a space for people of all ages to try out new technologies and creative tools. Library cards are required to use the equipment, however, cards are available to residents for free on the SDG Library website or in-person at one of 15 branches.

ABOUT THE MAKERLAB
A Makerspace is a collaborative space to make, learn, explore and share ideas with others. In response to the “Maker Movement,” public libraries across North America have incorporated Makerspace elements into their branches. In 2019, to enhance library services in SDG Counties, SDG Library developed a business case that proposed the development of a MakerLab in Finch. The Finch Branch was redesigned, restructured, and renamed as the SDG Library’s MakerLab, with special equipment to outfit the space.

ABOUT SDG LIBRARY

The SDG Library encompasses 15 library branches and four express depots across the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry.

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For further information or to arrange an interview with a member of SDG Library staff, please get in touch with SDG Library Communications and Marketing Coordinator Cassie MacDonell at cmacdonell@sdglibrary.ca or (613) 577-1864.

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