AT A GLANCE
LIBRARY
Middletown Township Public Library
INTERVIEWED
Kathryn Hammond
MLS, Library Director
Ebony Reeves
Makerspace Coordinator
Samantha Van Rikxoort
Makerspace Staff
FEATURED TECHNOLOGIES
- Cricut Maker 3, Venture, Joy, AutoPress & Mug Press
- xTool Laser Engraver
- 3Doodler
- 3D Printing
- Sublimation Printing
- Embroidery Machines
Building Community, Creativity, and Confidence Through Library Makerspace
THE CHALLENGE
Like many libraries, Middletown Township Public Library was looking for new ways to serve its community beyond traditional library services.
During a major renovation, the team initially considered creating a space focused on supporting local small businesses. As planning evolved, they recognized an even larger opportunity: creating a makerspace where anyone in the community could learn new skills, access professional-grade equipment, and bring their ideas to life.
The goal was simple: remove barriers to creativity and provide access to tools that many residents would never be able to justify purchasing on their own.
“We wanted everybody in the community to be able to come in, learn different skills, and use equipment they might not otherwise have access to.”
THE SOLUTION
The library transformed part of its renovated facility into a fully equipped community makerspace featuring:
- Cricut cutting machines and presses
- Sublimation printing equipment
- Laser engraving technology
- Sewing and embroidery machines
- 3D printers
- Design workstations
- Hands-on training and workshops
Rather than simply providing equipment, the library built a support system around it.
Patrons can complete trainings, attend classes, schedule one-on-one appointments, and receive guidance from knowledgeable staff members. The makerspace is designed to welcome everyone, from complete beginners to experienced makers.
“People come in nervous to use Canva or a machine they’ve never touched before. By their second appointment, they’re confident and creating things on their own.”
COMMUNITY IMPACT
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
One of the biggest surprises has been the broad range of users. Children, teens, parents, retirees, entrepreneurs, hobbyists, and community organizations all use the space regularly. There is no single demographic driving participation.
The makerspace has become a gathering place where people learn together, share ideas, and inspire one another.
Staff frequently witness patrons discovering new projects simply by seeing what someone else is creating.
“It’s really nice seeing people work together and share ideas. One person’s project often sparks another person’s creativity.”
SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES
The makerspace has also become a launchpad for local entrepreneurs.
One patron used the library’s equipment to produce more than 100 custom shirts for a convention. The success of those sales allowed her to purchase her own heat press and expand her business.
“She came back and told us she was able to buy her own equipment. That was really exciting because it helped jumpstart her business.”
EXPANDING ACCESSIBILITY
The library has also welcomed special needs groups and community organizations into the space, providing opportunities for participants to create, learn, and build confidence.
By offering access to expensive equipment, expert support, and a welcoming environment, the makerspace helps ensure these opportunities are available to everyone.
UNEXPECTED OUTCOMES
While the library anticipated interest in technologies like 3D printers and laser engravers, some of the most popular equipment has been the sewing and embroidery machines.
Staff have also seen demand grow far beyond initial expectations. In recent months, the makerspace has experienced significant growth, with dozens of appointments scheduled each week and increasing word-of-mouth referrals from throughout the community.
The makerspace is also influencing other areas of library programming. Departments throughout the library now incorporate makerspace resources into events, activities, displays, and community initiatives.
“We have people who haven’t stepped foot in the library in ten years coming in because they heard about the makerspace.”
BUILDING A COMMUNITY HUB
Perhaps the most meaningful outcome has been the role the makerspace plays in bringing people together.
Patrons don’t just come to make a project. They come to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another. The library has intentionally evolved into a community-centered destination with gathering spaces, study rooms, workshops, and creative opportunities that encourage engagement.
“It’s become more than equipment. People come here, meet others, share ideas, and build confidence.”
“Ask people what they want before you build it. The reason our equipment gets used is because it’s what the community asked for.”
ADVICE FOR OTHER LIBRARIES
When asked what advice they would offer libraries considering a makerspace, the Middletown team emphasized one key principle:
Listen to Your Community
Before opening the makerspace, the library surveyed residents to understand what tools and experiences they wanted. That feedback directly influenced purchasing decisions and continues to guide programming today.
The team also recommends:
- Visiting other makerspaces before launching your own
- Planning carefully for space, workflow, and future growth
- Installing more electrical outlets than you think you’ll need
- Including portable equipment for outreach and community events
- Creating opportunities for beginners to build confidence
LOOKING AHEAD
As demand continues to grow, Middletown Township Public Library is focused on expanding programming, increasing community engagement, and helping patrons discover even more ways to create.
The vision remains the same as when the makerspace first opened: To provide a welcoming place where anyone can learn new skills, explore ideas, and transform creativity into something tangible.
“People love saying, ‘I made this in the makerspace.’ That’s what it’s all about.”
