A Community Makerspace
Whether you are looking to learn new skills, build on existing ones, or learn a new hobby, the Library’s Creation Station is here to foster creation, innovation, and exploration. Not sure where to start? You can get help by stopping by during staffed hours or contacting us to make an appointment. The Creation Station is open during regular library hours. View the Creation Station rules here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creation Station?
The Creation Station is a community makerspace, where people with shared ideas and interests can gather to work on projects while sharing equipment and knowledge. If you put a wood shop, a metal shop, a computer lab, arts and crafts, electronics, and a bunch of tools all under one roof, you’d have a makerspace.
A perfect example of the many ways our community can work together, the Creation Station is a flexible workspace for individuals and small groups will share STEAM-related (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) supplies and equipment to bring their inventions and creations to life. It also includes worktables, equipment, and a variety of gadgets for DIY projects and activities. In addition, the space will be used to enhance and expand the Library’s existing programs for all ages with hands-on STEAM-related workshops, demonstrations, and projects.
The Library is grateful to the following generous donors, whose investment in the Creation Station supports learning, inspires creativity, and nurtures opportunities for the next entrepreneur, inventor, or artist to emerge:
- Natrona County Library Foundation
- Friends of the Natrona County Library
- Kelley Foundation
- Ruth R. Ellbogen Foundation
- Rocky Mountain Power Foundation
- Hooks, Stitch, and Tea
- Wyoming Community Foundation
- Masterson Family Foundation
- University of Wyoming College of Engineering and Applied Science
- Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Who can use the Creation Station?
Patrons under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 at all times. Exceptions may occur in cases of library staff-led programming specifically developed for younger patrons.
Can I get help with my project?
Yes, you can get help by contacting us to make an appointment or stopping by during staffed hours. Library staff aren’t experts on everything; however, they are there to help and learn things together.
What does the Creation Station cost to use?
The Creation Station equipment is free to use. The Library provides free consumable materials on a limited basis.
Is there a time limit on any of the equipment?
The time limit is one hour for most pieces of equipment, but if no one is waiting to use the machine you may continue to use it.
How many people will be allowed in the Creation Station at one time?
Up to 25 people will be allowed in the area at one time. This could change based upon the activities in the space.
May I bring food and drinks into the Creation Station?
No. Food and drink are not allowed in the Creation Station.
Can I bring in my own computer/tablet and hook it up to the design equipment?
Personal devices cannot be connected to the Creation Station equipment. The Creation Station has two laptops that you may use for projects on a first come first serve basis. You may also use the Library’s public computers to create your Cricut, 3D Printer, and Glowforge designs.
Can the Creation Station be used by outside groups?
Yes! The Creation Station can be used by outside groups. Examples of outside groups include homeschool cooperatives, Boys & Girls Club, Scouting troops, The Science Zone, school groups, etc. Please contact us for more information.
Can I or my group get a tour of the Creation Station?
Yes! Please contact us to get a tour scheduled for your group.
Can I use the Creation Station to plug in my laptop or read?
No. The Creation Station is reserved specifically for creating, inventing and learning. Patrons are welcome to use other areas in the Library to read, relax, or do other work not related to DIY projects.