ACPL announces new podcast studio and Maker Labs rebrand | WANE 15

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – The Allen County Public Library announced Monday that its branch-wide Maker Labs will be rebranded, offering new programs and technology under the name of “The Studios at the library”.

Director for Community Partnerships and Programs, Beth Boatright, said the rebrand fits the library’s 2024 to 2028 Strategic Plan committed to “Lifelong Learning and Discovery,” and allows the Maker Labs to evolve with their newly acquired equipment.

The equipment, such as a brand-new podcast studio, and learning programs will soon be available at the main Maker Lab at the downtown ACPL location at 900 Library Plaza. The lab is currently under construction where the old Dunkin Donuts previously operated off Washington Blvd. The lab is expected to open in January of 2025.

The studio lab will update decade old equipment, offering new technology to benefit the community.

But what can visitors really do in these labs?

The main Maker Lab will have new Prusa 3-D printers big and small. 3-D scanning is also available at the downtown location, allowing the shape of almost any object to be replicated. This can be useful in prototyping, allowing entrepreneurs and small businesses a way to test their product ideas. Social media content creators and musicians can take advantage of the sound booth and new podcast studio. Craft enthusiasts can use the Cricut machine cutter, laser cutter, or engravers for custom cards, decals, labels, and banners.

The Don Wood Foundation awarded a $122,213 grant to the ACPL to help cover the new equipment.

“The Makers spaces at the Allen County Public Library branches are just such a natural opportunity to align our mission at the Don Wood Foundation and our desire to lifelong learning prevail in our communities,” said Don Wood Foundation President, Laura Macknick.