FAIRVIEW PARK (Ohio) — The Cuyahoga County Public Library is continuing to offer its customers cutting-edge technology.
The latest innovation centers offer public access to 3D printing, design software, laser engraving and embroidery.
“Most places would call an innovation center a makerspace, which is technically what it is,” Cuyahoga County Public Library Literacy and Learning Director Rebecca Ranallo said.
“We teach classes. We have access to equipment which you won’t find anywhere else. You’re going to get access to Adobe software or a bunch of higher-tech equipment and some help in using it for free in your community.”
A free event to celebrate the new facility is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 3, 6 p.m. at the Fairview Park branch.
The staff will show you how to use the equipment in the Innovation Center to create designs and embroidered apparel.
“An embroidery machine, sublimation printing, 3D printer and laser engraver are what we see as the most utilized in our other innovation center spaces by the community but also small businesses,” she said.
“We also have a UV printer. That’s our new element (in Fairview Park) to print those vibrant colors on paper or anything else. It’s super cool.”
The library decided to upgrade Fairview Park by $50,000 based on its West Side Location and available space in Lorain Road.
“It’s on the second floor of the front of the branch in a nice corner,” she said.
“That’s where we prefer to place those, in sight of the reference desk so our staff can see if someone needs assistance.”
While there’s no charge to use the Cuyahoga County Public Library innovation center equipment, users are responsible for the costs of consumable materials (e.g., 3D printing filament, vinyl material).
There are limited supplies of consumable material available.
Visitors are welcome to bring in their own materials that have been pre-approved for their project.
“It really fits perfectly with our mission to help people discover something new and maybe discover a skill they don’t have,” she said.
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