University of Findlay Unveils Makerspace

University of Findlay has added a Makerspace to the Shafer Library, allowing students to use 3-D printers, Cricut machines, Glowforge engraving, and a heat press. Students, faculty, and staff had the chance this week to explore the space and take home a few items created by the machines.

By definition, a makerspace is a collaborative workspace inside a school, library, or public facility for making, learning, exploring, and sharing. The new space in Shafer Library’s basement is free and open to students, allowing them to express themselves creatively and create new items (keychains, coasters, etc.). The machines on site will be available for use, and assistance will be provided on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Times are subject to change as the University analyzes the usage of the space and discusses potentially hiring students to work in the makerspace.

“We were trying to figure out ways to get students back in the library. We started with a gaming area in the basement, allowing students to gather, but we wanted more,” said Scott Kidd, Academic Technology Support (ATS) Manager. “We’ve been talking about creating a space like this for years and finally had the opportunity to make it happen.”

Students interested in learning more about the makerspace, or interested in using the machines, can contact University ITS at 419-434-4357 or by email at helpdesk.findlay.edu.