The Lethbridge Public Library is set to celebrate a big opening.
On Monday, October 7, you can stop by the Main Branch in downtown Lethbridge for the official unveiling of the Makerspace and the Library of Things!
NEW MAKERSPACE
The Makerspace is a new communal area at the Main Branch where guests can collaborate and express themselves creatively by using different tools like sewing machines, a Cricut cutting machine, a heat press, and a 3D printer. The new resource will be available by signing up for a Makerspace program.
“The library is proud to be launching our new Makerspace. The space is designed so that people can express themselves creatively, and to give the public access to equipment and resources that they may not be able to afford on their own,” says Jonathan Jarvie, Resource Sharing Librarian. “As the public begins to use the space, we intend to grow the equipment and resources available in order to meet community needs.”
LIBRARY OF THINGS
The Library of Things will allow guests the opportunity to borrow equipment for recreation and hobbies, including a fishing kit, binoculars, a projector, a karaoke machine, a knitting machine, and more. This is on top of the library’s pre-existing physical literacy items people might already be familiar with, such as yard games and sports equipment.
“The library is excited to have a dedicated space for our Library of Things so that we can continue to increase the number and variety of items available to borrow,” says Jennifer McDevitt, Online Services Librarian.
“I hope that the Library of Things will be an ongoing resource for customers dealing with the high cost of living, as well as a collection that exposes people to new technology and sustainable alternatives. Ultimately, libraries are all about sharing, and the Library of Things is another way to do that!”
Items from the Library of Things can be borrowed and returned to the location where they are held, whether that be the Main Branch downtown of Crossings Branch in west Lethbridge. Items cannot be placed on hold, but guests can call the library to have them set aside for same-day pickup. Residents can also donate gently-used items and suggest ideas for future items to be included in the Library of Things.
GRAND OPENING – OCTOBER 7
Monday’s grand opening will feature loads of family-friendly activities and a sweet treat in the form of celebratory cake.
The drop-in event is on from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Main Branch. It will give attendees the chance to discover the library’s new collections. Those that stop by can also enter to win a prize by suggesting future items to add to the Library of Things.
Attendees can pick up a mystery bag of craft supplies and bring their creation back to the library by Monday, October 21 to be entered in a community vote for best creation.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY MONTH
October marks ‘Circular Economy Month’.
The City of Lethbridge says having these kinds of items available through the library gives guests the opportunity to borrow and share existing equipment that is needed infrequently instead of buying the items new.
Officials say this can help save money and reduce waste in the community.
