Our Makerspace services offer vibrant, collaborative experiences where you can learn, create, and grow. These services empower you to develop new skills, explore your creativity, and connect with others in the community through science, technology, engineering, arts, and more.

Before you can use our 3D printer or fabric printer on your own, you'll need to complete our Maker 101 Workshops. These one-on-one sessions cover everything you need to know about 3D printing and fabric printing. Once you've completed the relevant workshop, you'll be able to book time to use the equipment independently and start bringing your creative projects to life.

Build, design and create to your imagination’s content by booking one of our makerspace services, which currently include: 3D printing, fabric printing, and iMac computers. More services will be added in the months to come.

Do you have a question about makerspace services? Read through the frequently asked questions below or contact us for more information. 

Who can use our makerspace equipment?

RHPL members in good standing may use our makerspace equipment. Supervision by a parent or guardian is required if the user is under the age of 14. 

Before you can use our equipment on your own, you’ll need to complete an appropriate Maker 101 workshop. After you’ve completed the workshop, you’ll be able to book time to use the equipment on your own. Go to Booking Tool.

Why are makerspace services only available at Central Branch?

After collecting feedback from our community and our team, we closed our makerspace services temporarily to work on an improved service model for our highly valued and in-demand makerspace services. We’re currently piloting a new model for our makerspaces, which provides free, hands-on workshops with our expert staff, and independent equipment use with our 3D and fabric printers. This pilot was launched at Central Branch, and 3D printing is also now available at Richmond Green Branch. Please continue to check our website for the most up to date information on our makerspace services.

When and how can I book a makerspace service?

Before you can use our equipment on your own, you’ll need to complete an appropriate Maker 101 workshop. After you’ve completed the workshop, you’ll be able to book time to use the equipment as an experienced maker on your own.

Visit our fabric printing or 3D printing web pages for full details on how to book equipment usage and training. 

Is there anything I can't create?

You can’t create items that are illegal under provincial or federal law; or items that are unsafe, harmful, obscene, dangerous, or pose an immediate threat to the wellbeing of others. This includes weapons or weapon components, sexually explicit material, or material that is in violation of intellectual property rights, copyright law, patent or trademark protection. The Library reserves the right to halt, delete or disallow the creation of items that it deems to be inappropriate.

What do I need to bring?

What you need to bring depends on what equipment you are planning to use; you’ll find full details on what’s needed in the “materials” section of our fabric printing and 3D printing web pages. In all instances, you’ll need to bring your RHPL membership card to your appointment.

How long does it take to create something? 

While some jobs can take hours, others take less time. In general, 3D printing requires more time than fabric printing, which is why you can book our 3D printer for four hours at a time, and our fabric printer for two hours at a time. it’s common for 3D printing to take several hours to complete. 

Keep in mind that all work should be completed 30 mins prior to closing. All work should be completed 30 minutes prior to the branch closing; makerspace equipment will not operate after the branch is closed, and any jobs that are not finished at closing will be cancelled.

Do I need to stay with my project?

As the creative genius behind your work, you are responsible for your project and are expected to monitor the equipment as it works. If there are problems with the equipment, please report them to us immediately so that you may maximize your scheduled block of time.

How much does it cost to use our makerspace equipment?

At this time, all equipment use and certain materials are free, including 3D printer filament and fabric printer ink. If you’re using the fabric printer, you’ll need to bring your own garment, which must be at least 50% cotton. You’ll be financially responsible for any damage or misuse of the equipment. 

What do I do if the equipment isn't working? 

We’ll do our best to ensure the equipment is working properly. If something isn’t working, please report it to us right away, and our team will do our best to work with you to find a solution. Problems relating to the designs or models themselves are your responsibility.