Anytime the Library is open and we don’t have a scheduled program in the Makerspace, equipment that doesn’t require staff assistance is available for use. Check our Event Calendar for times when anyone can drop-in to work in the Makerspace and get assistance from our staff.
Makerspace Appointments
Some of our equipment can only be used during an appointment with a staff member. We also encourage anyone who has never used a Cricut Maker 3 before to make an appointment to get staff assistance and training the first time they use this equipment. Please schedule an appointment with our staff to work on projects using the following equipment:
- CNC Router
- Laser Engraver
- Embroidery Machine
- Large Format Printer
- Sublimation Printer & Presses
- Cricut Maker 3 – w/staff help
Creation Station Reservations
Creation Station computers have the full Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, Photoshop Elements, Premiere Elements, as well as programs for creating with music and sound. We also offer specialized software for creating 2D and 3D files needed for using our Makerspace equipment. You can also preserve memories by converting to digital from older media formats:
- Documents & Photos
- Slides & Negatives
- VHS tapes
- Vinyl records
- Audio cassettes
- Super 8/8mm film
Please contact (269) 585-8712 or createandmake@portagelibrary.info if you have questions before making an appointment.
Additional Information
We have a second Cricut Maker 3 for drop-in use for those who have received training from our staff or already have personal experience using one. Please do not make an appointment for one if you do not need assistance or training from our staff.
It is not necessary to make an appointment or reservation to use the following equipment:
- Cricut Maker 3
- Button & Magnet makers
- Sewing machines
- ChompSaw
- Book & Spiral Binding machines
- Woodzilla printing press
- Creative Kits
- STEM Kits
For safety reasons, some equipment requires adult supervision. Before making a visit to the Makerspace, please review the information provided on specific equipment pages to learn about any age restrictions.
Our 3D printer is not available for visitors to run their own print jobs. Please visit our 3D Printing page to learn more about how to submit a request for printing a 3D item.