AT A GLANCE
LIBRARY
Westfield Memorial Public Library
INTERVIEWED
Genny Girvan
Emerging Technologies Librarian
Kiana Kirby
Head of Technology and Technical Services
FEATURED TECHNOLOGIES
- SMART Board Interactive Display
- LEGO Spike Robotics
- 3Doodler
- Cubelets
- Glowforge
- Bambu 3D Printer
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A Makerspace Built Around Community, Creativity, and Confidence
THE VISION
When Westfield Memorial Public Library transformed former staff offices into a makerspace, the goal was more than installing new technology.
The team wanted to create a welcoming space where people of all ages could explore, experiment, and build confidence through hands-on learning.
As Makerspace Librarian Genny explains,
“I don’t want it to be just a room. I want it to have a philosophy.”
Today, that philosophy comes to life through workshops, robotics, digital literacy classes, creative projects, and opportunities for the community to learn from one another.
Bringing Learning to Life
At the center of many programs is the SMART Board, which helps turn demonstrations into interactive experiences.
Whether participants are coding LEGO Spike robots, designing Glowforge projects, or learning how to access digital resources like Libby, the SMART Board allows everyone to follow along, collaborate, and participate together.
For younger learners, the touchscreen makes coding and problem- solving more intuitive, while adults appreciate seeing apps and interactive tools displayed in a familiar, easy-to-follow format.
Instead of standing at the front of the room delivering presentations, library staff create experiences where patrons can explore alongside one another.
A Space That Gives Back
Perhaps the makerspace’s greatest success isn’t measured by the technology inside it, but by the community it inspires.
This summer, local high school students volunteered to design and lead a free STEM camp for elementary and middle school students. Using the makerspace and its resources, they created lessons in robotics, aviation, engineering, and game design, transforming the library into a place where learners become teachers and ideas become community service.
Community Impact
The makerspace continues to attract families, teens, and adults looking to try something new.
Parents have shared that the space gives children another place to connect with friends outside of sports, while adults enjoy exploring tools and technologies they might not have access to. More importantly, the space encourages curiosity, resilience, and creativity, reminding visitors that it’s okay to experiment, troubleshoot, and learn together.
“We’re creating access to equipment, tools, community, and knowledge, while helping people leave feeling empowered that they can do it themselves.”
