The Milton Public Library is gradually phasing in a new tech hub, a makers’ space designed to local residents explore their creativity and imagination.
Located at Sherwood Branch (6355 Main St.), the hub offers patrons access to a 3D printer, two different kinds of Cricut machines and a sublimation printer -- with more high-tech tools to be added down the line.
“Really, the idea is to help use the hub as an incubator of sorts for people who are starting a company, a side hustle, things of that nature,” said Sherwood Branch Manager Natalie Haid. “If they are wanting to make a prototype of something or if they are wanting to just try out the technology before they buy it, that is the whole premise behind the pieces.”
Access to the tech is, for the time being, limited to anyone 18 years of age or older as MPL tests the space with the public. But as staff learn more about how people are using it, high school students may well provided access.
The hub will require the completion of a free certification program to show card-carrying members how to use the machines. Though a concrete date has not been set for the full roll-out of the hub, Haid says that the certification programs will be made available sometime in April.
Those interested can enrol in the program as many times as they'd like until they are comfortable with the technology.
Similiar tech hubs may be added at the Main and Beaty branches.
At one end of the custom-designed table at Sherwood, two iMacs can be found. These computers will be hooked up to the machines, allowing easy operation. Plans are also in the works to install the video editing software Filmora.
As said, the hub is still in its infancy. Things like online booking portals and costs for use are still being hashed out alongside the certification programs.
More information about the 3D printer can be found on the MPL’s 3D printer page. More information about the library’s services, including the tech hub, can be found on BeInspired.ca/Sherwood-branch.