Studio 411 Archived

A makerspace is a creative resource center where patrons gain access to technology and opportunities for hands-on learning in a communal environment. Some commonly available machines in a makerspace include 3D printers, electronic cutters like a Cricut machine, and sewing machines.  

Studio 411 is Helen Plum Library's makerspace where patrons will be able to work on self-directed projects or pick up some new crafting skills. We're here to support you on your do-it-yourself journey, and we're excited to see what you'll make! 

While we develop our offerings, only Helen Plum Library cardholders aged 18 and older are eligible to register for reservations and demos.

Eligible patrons will only be allowed to operate equipment independently once a Facilities and Equipment Use Agreement has been signed and submitted in person.

Parents interested in creative, maker-centric programming for their children can inquire with the Youth Services department on the first floor.

For a complete list of currently available technology, please see the Available Equipment section on this page.

Studio 411 will be a primarily self-directed space. To ensure patron safety, machines will only become available once they have been thoroughly tested and enough documentation has been compiled to allow for independent operation. 

Use of equipment will be free of charge. Patrons will be expected to bring in their own materials unless otherwise stated. 

Classes are not available at this time, but we are actively working to develop class content. As sessions become available, they will be added to our website and online event calendar.

Please sign up for our email newsletter to receive a notification when our classes launch!

You must submit a request to participate in a demo or schedule a reservation using our Reservation Site.

• Demos will offer patrons hands-on learning opportunities to gain familiarity with a piece of equipment by completing a simple project.
   
• Reservations will be required for independent machine operations and grant up to 2 hours of equipment access per session.

You will be limited to one request per week for either a demo or reservation. All time slots will be bookable up to two weeks in advance by HPL cardholders and will close one day before a preferred activity to allow staff time to prepare equipment and finalize participant lists.

We cannot accept walk-ins at this time.  

All important information relevant to your reservation will be included in your confirmation email. Please email studio411@helenplum.org if you are unable to locate your confirmation. 

A User Agreement must be on file for you to operate equipment.

• The paperwork must be submitted and approved in person, and you must bring your Helen Plum Library card and a valid form of ID with your current address to complete the paperwork. Physical copies are available at the Adult Services desk on the second floor for your convenience.

You must check in at the Adult Services desk before their reservation or demo.

You must remain with your project at all times.    

Studio 411 will be a shared space and multiple reservations will be taking place simultaneously. Reservations will include access to equipment and relevant tools, but they will not include 1-on-1 instruction. Guidebooks with basic information will be available to help you work independently through machine operation. 

In addition to bringing in your own materials, if reserving a machine that relies on digital designs, you should plan to have a file prepared ahead of your appointment. All accepted file types will be listed on the dedicated machine page, along with tutorials to help you make or find a design. 

Work areas must be cleaned by the end of your reservation. The Library is unable to store incomplete projects for users.  

Each machine included on the available equipment page will list provided, required, recommended, and prohibited materials on their dedicated information page.

Staff must approve all materials prior to use. Data safety sheets may be requested for materials that go through the laser cutter.

It is strongly recommended that you bring extra material to practice with, whether it be your first of fiftieth time using a machine. Making is iterative and mistakes are part of the process – it is entirely normal to mess up!  

If you would like recommendations for materials or vendors, please email studio411@helenplum.org.

We will not stock materials for most of our machines, but may provide specialized items depending on the process.

Studio 411 cannot be booked for group events.  

Guests will be permitted, but space is limited, and machine operation will be restricted to Helen Plum Library cardholders with User Agreements on file. Patrons with reservations will be prioritized, and overly disruptive groups will be asked to leave for the day.