Learning at the Library
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.
Appointment times are dependent on staff and equipment availability.
*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.
Certified Learners
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.
Group Projects
Would you like to use this space and its equipment for your group or large project? Email programming@crlibrary.org.
Equipment Available
Glowforge Plus Laser Cutter and Engraver: Create with the easy to use software and the library’s Premium subscription to make a variety of projects. The machine uses a CO2 laser to cut, score, and engrave on materials such as wood, leather, and acrylic. Learn more.
Coming Soon! xTool P2 Laser Cutter and Engraver: xTool’s design software allows you to create projects from scratch while offering a variety of controls that help fine tune the laser’s cutting, scoring, and engraving functions. Learn more.
Prusa MK3S+ 3D Printer: Create three dimensional objects layer by layer using a computer-created design. Learn more.
Cricut Maker 3 Cutting Machine: Computer-controlled cutting plotter, used for cutting paper, felt, vinyl, fabric, and more. A Cricut Easy Press 2 12" by 10" Heat Press is also available. Learn more.
American Button Machines Button Maker: Create high-quality pinback metal buttons.
1" Button Template
1" Button Template Word Doc
Accucut Die Cut Machine and Dies:
Hand operated die-cutting machine that uses commercial steel-rule dies to cut through cardstock, chipboard, fabric and more.
List of the Accucut dies available at the Library - Accucut Die List 2023.xlsx
Janome Jem Gold Plus Model 661 Sewing Machines: These sewing machines offer 12 stitches, a four-step buttonhole, built-in needle threader, one-hand thread cutter and quick foot conversion.
Epson Perfection V600 Photo, Film, Negative, and Document Scanner: High performance scanner with a 6400x9600 dpi resolution that can scan photos, film, slides, and everyday documents.
Plustek Photo Scanner: Sheet-feed scanner that can quickly scan items that are 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, and 8x10, and 8.5 x 11. Scans can be made at 300 or 600 dpi.