The Keller Public Library is getting a new rental service for creative devices, like a 3D printer and heat press, and a mural this month.
The upgrades are funded by a $50,000 private grant to the library.
The details
Any Keller Public Library card holder can go to the front desk to request a device from the new MakerStation. Items from the station include a 3D printer, button maker, sewing and embroidery machine, a Glowforge laser cutting machine and a heat press.
“Maker stations are kind of trendy in libraries and it’s something that we’ve wanted for a long time,” library director Ann Flournoy said. “I’m excited to see what the community makes.”
Flournoy said all devices will be available free of cost for independent use in the library for card holders 13 years and older. She said users will be expected to use the equipment without handholding from library staff.
The MakerStation is available for use as of April 9, Flournoy said.
Breaking it down
The private grant has been used to fund the MakerStation, the mural in the library’s meeting room, events for its Late Night at the Library series and the library’s One Book One City gala in March, Flournoy said.
The library is currently stocking up on supplies for the MakerStation with leftover funds from the grant, Flournoy said. She said future maintenance for the station will depend on demand from the community and its needs.
Also of note
The mural in the library’s meeting room will havve images of books and animals along a river. The idea of a mural for the library came because of peeling wallpaper in the meeting room, Flournoy said.
“The design is a great tie into a community [that’s] very outdoorsy. Parks are a very important part of the Keller community,” she said. The mural is being painted by a local artist, Anya Bosworth, who grew up in Keller.
Rachel Reynolds, the city’s communications and engagement manager, said the mural is still in progress and should be completed in mid-April. The library is also planning a reveal event May 11.
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