One of the exciting ways libraries are evolving to meet the needs of the community is the addition of “makerspaces” where people can create, invent and share ideas using equipment supplied by the library.  Thanks to a $14,000 grant from the California State Library Pitch-an-Idea program, Mariposa Library will soon be offering a makerspace to the public on Saturdays. Mariposa was one of 30 libraries in the state to receive a grant from a field of 65 applicants.

Called Green S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math), the program will be based on a sustainable theme. Participants will work with low-impact and used, rather than virgin, materials that would otherwise end up in the landfill, including:  filament for a 3D printer made from discarded plant-based plastic utensils; used clothing; and natural non-toxic ingredients for household cleaners.

The makerspace will be open to all ages from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursdays for 12 to 18 year olds. Monthly workshops will also be held on topics such as solid waste and recycling, food and nutrition, forestry management, pets and livestock, gardening, fashion and textiles, alternative energy, and green housekeeping. Each workshop will touch on all five components of S.T.E.A.M. and will culminate in a project related to the day’s topic, such as upcycling a piece of used clothing. Two workshops will also be held at the Greeley Hill and El Portal branches during the year.

While the adults are taking part in the workshops, children will be able to learn and explore with a story and age appropriate activities in the children’s room.

Among the equipment that will be purchased for the program are: a 3D printer, scanner and extruder, a laser engraver, sewing machines, looms, woodworking tools and glass cutters. Participants will be able to check out some of the equipment with their library card for use at home during the week.

In addition to providing stimulating opportunities for intellectual and creative growth for people of all ages, one of the goals of the Green STEAM program is to explore marketing opportunities for products made by participants, such as local and on-line sales.  A Maker Fair with a sustainable flair is also being planned that will allow both participants and other members of the public to display and/or sell their wares and discuss their ideas.

Volunteers are needed to help monitor the makerspace on Saturdays, to help with both the children’s and adult workshops, to train people on use of the equipment and to help plan the Maker Fair.

For more information go to MariposaLibrary.org, call 209-966-2140 or email karen.dusek@mariposalibrary.org.