Just beyond the circulation desk in Klinck Memorial Library lies a brand-new space that is anticipated to be open for select classes this semester. Loaded with sewing machines, 3D printers, computerized cutting plotters, and an engraver, the Makerspace is expected to host many art classes and art-related events in the near future.
The project was first proposed last November as a collaboration between the library and the art department, though the purchase of equipment and set-up of the space did not occur until mid-summer.
The space is still a work in progress. Student workers are learning the machines and the library is working with Cougarnet to fine-tune the technological aspects of the space, such as software and machine check-out.
“Public library makerspaces can be very different, but the Makerspace here at Concordia is really intended to integrate into the classes and support the work that the students are learning about within the classroom,” said library director Liesl Cottrell. “It should intertwine with the curriculum.”
The space contains two computerized sewing and embroidery machines, three heavy-duty sewing machines, several Cricut machines, button makers, an engraving machine called the Glow Forge Spark and two 3D printers.
“Technological innovation at the students’ fingertips serves as a springboard for advancing technical skillsets, pushing the boundaries of creativity, and ultimately, embracing the opportunity to lead with servant heart by reaching out to a wider community,” said art program lead Nikkole Huss.
The art department anticipates using it soon for events and for a Drawing 1 course this semester. Next semester, classes such as Fiber Arts could use the space.
“I used to be a competitive sewer so it’s really exciting to have really nice sewing machines,” said Angela Dieffenbach, an assistant professor of art. “It’s such a blessing to be able to have such amazing equipment available to students.”
Art Club has already made use of the new space, hosting a button-making event there on October 22. Art Club executive board member Anastashia Balderrama, a junior, said that Art Club has many event ideas involving the space moving forward, noting the sticker-making capabilities of the Cricut machines and endless possibilities with the 3D printers.
“We’re excited to use it,” Balderrama said prior to the event. “[Art department student workers are] all trying to learn how to use the space so we can be a helpful tool for students when they finally get to use the space.”
Senior Kierra Mohalley has her sights set on the Makerspace as a tool to help create her senior capstone project. Aiming to spotlight fiber arts because of its history of being dismissed and trivialized as a medium of art, Mohalley plans on creating three fiber arts pieces and one watercolor piece.
“All of the pieces reflect a woman who is important in my life and have an ode to women in general in fiber arts,” she said.
Mohalley will utilize the Brother embroidery machine for her embroidery piece and one of the Cricut machines for applique for another piece.
“I appreciate that the library is opening up more of a creative space in addition to the books,” Mohalley said. “It’s a beautiful thing to be able to use those machines without needing to pay the upfront cost of purchasing one for your personal use.”
Though the technical aspects of the space are still being worked out, both the art department and the library look ahead to the future of the space, welcoming student feedback.
“I’m just excited that the library is becoming more of a hub for creativity instead of just studying and stress because I want students to feel comfortable and excited about the library,” said Cottrell. “Books are our foundation, but we are so much more and I think students at Concordia are finally experiencing that. I’m hoping that students will feel comfortable enough to approach us with more ideas and how we can support them.”
