Maker Spaces

The Downtown Cedar Rapids Public Library has two unique spaces designed to connect patrons with new and emerging technology to build, design, craft, and create.

Trained library staff are available to teach and guide use of the equipment.

Appointments can be made by selecting a piece of equipment below.

Appointment times are dependent on staff and equipment availability. Appointments are for one hour.

Please note: Appointments will be unavailable from February 5 to March 23, 2025.  We will be performing maintenance on all machines, preparing the spaces for Maker Fest and transitioning our appointment system to a new software. We are sorry for this inconvenience.

*Materials such as inputs for the 3D printers are provided for initial use while learning; repeat users may be asked to provide their own materials. 

Funding for the Maker Room is generously provided by The Giacoletto Foundation.

The Certified Learner program is for those who want to dive deeper into the equipment and learn to use it independently.

The laser cutters and engravers, Cricut, and 3D Printer require certification. Each machine requires separate certification. To become certified, learners need to complete a series of appointments demonstrating the skills required to run the machine independently and use the room and materials available appropriately. The number of appointments depends on each user and their comfort level with using technology; on average a typical user requires three 1-hour appointments. 

During the certification appointments, the librarian will go over safety information, machine maintenance, and room-use expectations. The librarian will also assess your ability to complete a series of tasks, which are recorded by staff and available through the library's Beanstack app.

Once certified, learners may use the machine independently, but an appointment is necessary to reserve the machine. 

Would you like to use this space and its equipment for your group or large project? Email programming@crlibrary.org.