Maker + STEAM services
Our Maker + STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) services department offers technological and artistic resources to encourage creative thinking, innovation, exploration, creation, and problem solving. Check us out for access to 3D printing, digital design software, arts and crafts supplies, robotics, coding, photography, and more! We provide an open, welcoming space to gather, collaborate, and learn from library staff and from each other.
The goal of Maker + STEAM services is to empower a community of makers, encourage creation, and support people of all ages in their endeavors to grow as innovators.
Maker + STEAM spaces
While making and STEAM education can happen anywhere, Main Library features three dedicated spaces where you can explore and create: the Innovation Lab, a makerspace featuring equipment and tools available for patron use; the MakerLab, a space dedicated for Maker + STEAM programs; and the Recording Studio, a space for audio recording and editing. Each space offers technology, programs, and other resources to aid you in your innovative endeavors.
Innovation Lab open hours
Equipment
Here’s some of the technology we have – see each equipment link for more details:
3D printing
Create physical 3D models from digital files with printers that melt and extrude plastic layer-by-layer.
Cricut and Cameo / light-cutting machines
Do-it-yourself machines that cut a wide variety of lighter materials such as papers, vinyl, and fabric. Equipment availability coming soon!
Laser cutter / heavy-cutting machine
An easy-to-use machine that can cut, score, and/or engrave many different heavier materials such as wood, cardboard, and some plastics.
Poster printer
High-quality prints for all of your poster needs.
Sewing machine
A machine for all of your stitching, fixing, and fabric creation needs. Equipment availability coming soon!
FAQ
History of Maker + STEAM services at Durham County Library
Meet the Maker + STEAM team
Questions? Contact us at Maker_STEAM@dconc.gov.
Caroline
Caroline has loved libraries since before she could read, and she loves incorporating science and arts into accessible and creative programs. She loves reading most genres, especially middle grade and young adult, fiction with magic, novels in verse, humanities nonfiction, and graphic novels. She graduated with a B.S. in Kinesiology and Master of Library and Information Science from UNCG. When not at the library, Caroline loves spending time with her kids (who love to read, too!) and her favorite people, reading, hiking, exploring, music, and our NC mountains.
Pronouns: she/her
Doe
Doe is one of the office assistants for the Maker + STEAM Unit at Durham County Library. He is a second-generation Korean-American, having earned his degree in Philosophy with distinctions from North Carolina State University. Aside from working part-time at the library, Doe also works as a professional freelance illustrator, having done commissions for clientele such as Penguin Random House. He hopes to bring his knowledge and passion in the arts to the Maker + STEAM Unit! Some hobbies include archery, hiking, and running a disastrous DND campaign.
Pronouns: he/him
Kyle
Kyle grew up with a love of anything mechanical, working on cars and bicycles from a very young age. Before joining the team at the library, he taught STEAM classes to students in Nashville and New York City. Kyle has a love of 3D modeling and printing, and as a part of the Maker + STEAM Unit he hopes to bring his experience to the patrons of the library. His favorite genre is science fiction, with a particular affinity for any story set in the vast expanse of space. Outside of the library, Kyle enjoys working on his car, riding his bicycle, or learning new tricks with his yo-yo. If you see him around, ask him to show you a trick!
Pronouns: he/they