The IDEA Lab, located on the first floor of the Main Library, is a makerspace and creative technology center that strives to provide our library community with access to a variety of STEAM-related educational, recreational, and cultural resources and experiences.
We encourage patrons to learn and develop new skill sets in this space, through both self-paced experimentation and participation in group learning experiences. We have a variety of equipment and materials available for use, including (but not limited to!) 3D Printers, Cricut cutting machines, a Glowforge laser engraver, sewing and embroidery machines, and vocal recording booths. Whether you already have a project in mind or you’re just curious about our space, we are here to answer your questions and help you start creating.
We also have a rotating selection of board games, card games, and puzzles available for use inside the library. Stop by any time the IDEA Lab is open to check these out.
To view a list of upcoming IDEA Lab programs, please refer to the “IDEA Lab Events” section on the right side of this page. For information about our waiver, making reservations, required equipment training, materials fees, and more, see the FAQ section below. If you have any additional questions, please contact the technology librarian by email at kelsey.johnson@kcpls.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone using the IDEA Lab will need a current KCPL library card in good standing and a signed Makerspace Agreement form (here)*. Some of our equipment also requires training before use.
Children 11 and under must always have a guardian with them in the IDEA Lab.
* Exceptions are made only for scheduled library programs. You may attend a scheduled program in the IDEA Lab even without a library card or waiver. Prior registration may still be required for the program.
We don’t charge any entrance fees for the IDEA Lab, and most of the equipment is free to use with your library card. There are small fees for certain materials, like button makers or doodle pens, and we also have some optional materials and starter kits available for purchase. Any fees will be added to your library card account and can be paid at the circulation desks on the 1st or 3rd floors.
* Materials brought from home are subject to staff approval | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Training is required before using the:
3D Printers
Cricut Machines
Glowforge
Vocal Recording Booths
Sewing & Embroidery Machines
Online training is available through Niche Academy – just create a free account (here), go through the relevant modules, and pass the short quiz at the end with at least an 80%. Print out or take a screenshot of the completion certificate to show the library staff so we can add the training to your account.
If you prefer in-person learning, certain IDEA Lab programs can also count as equipment training. Check the calendar for upcoming programs or ask us for more information about alternative training options.
Reservations are strongly recommended but not required, and can be made through the library’s meeting room reservation system by selecting “IDEA Lab” from the Library Branch drop-down menu (here).
Equipment reservations can be made in 1-to-4-hour increments. There is a 15 minute grace period for arrival during your reservation time; if you are more than 15 minutes late, your reservation is subject to cancellation.
Drop-in equipment usage is available on a first-come, first-served basis during our operating hours.
Once you have completed the required training, you can bring your design in (preferably on a USB flash drive) to be 3D printed. Designs must be saved as an .STL file type so that library staff can slice it on the appropriate software and then load it onto the printer.
Want to try 3D printing but don’t have a design in mind yet? thingiverse.com has several free designs available for download, or tinkercad.com teaches you how to create your own.
While you don’t need an IDEA Lab waiver to check out our games, you will still need a KCPL library card – we’ll have you sign the game in and out on a checkout sheet. Games are only available for use in the library (you can’t check them out to take home), and only during IDEA Lab/TeenZone hours.
There is no fee to check out and play a game, but if any pieces or cards are missing when you return it you may be billed for the full cost of the game.
We do have a games catalog (here) but our collection is constantly being updated, so the best way to find out what games we have is to just stop by and take a look.
IDEA Lab Hours:
"Voices of Freedom" is an opportunity for Citizen Scientists (that's you!) to learn from transcription experts at the Smithsonian and contribute to real, ongoing research about post-Civil war American history.
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Code Club will meet monthly in the IDEA Lab to learn about coding resources and technologies, work on ongoing projects, and collaborate with other learners.
Disclaimer(s)
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Celebrate Earth Day 2026 with us by helping the researchers at Snapshot Wisconsin monitor wildlife through trail camera photos.
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Let's Learn About: Trees
To celebrate the ongoing "Appalachian Spring" tree-planting project happening around Charleston this year, let's learn more about the science of trees!
Disclaimer(s)
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Accompanying Adults
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Inclement Weather
All programs are subject to rescheduling or cancellation in the event of inclement weather.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Code Club will meet monthly in the IDEA Lab to learn about coding resources and technologies, work on ongoing projects, and collaborate with other learners.
Disclaimer(s)
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Test your reasoning skills, solve puzzles, confront information biases, decode mysterious messages, and learn real skills to help you spot fake news and misinformation.
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Get ready for a week-long adventure where we learn about the different animal classifications, life’s interconnectedness, and biological adaptations!
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
Get ready for a week-long adventure where we learn about the different animal classifications, life’s interconnectedness, and biological adaptations!
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Registration Required
Registration for this program is required due to limited space and materials. If you cannot attend, please call the library to cancel your registration so the spot may open up to others. A registration will be cancelled and a program spot made available to other patrons if the registrant does not arrive within 10 minutes of the scheduled program time.
Food Allergies
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
SLC: Hour of Code Jr
This is an introduction to computer coding designed specifically for young learners. This program will introduce kids to Scratch – a visual, block-based coding language designed to be intuitive and beginner-friendly.
Disclaimer(s)
Internet & Technology Disclaimer
Participants may use internet-enabled library devices and access program-related websites or apps. All users must follow KCPL’s Electronic Resources and Usage Policy, including compliance with Children's Internet Protection Act. Contact the program administrator with any questions before the program.
Accessibility
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodation to attend a program at any KCPL facility should contact the ADA Coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event. Phone: 304-343-4646 ext. 1242 or 1268 Email: facilities@kanawhalibrary.org
Main Library Patrons with strollers, wheelchairs, or other wheeled devices will find it easier to use the Jacobson Tower entrance on Quarrier Street or the Skybridge entrance via Summers Street Garage.
Accompanying Adults
This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Please plan to attend and be engaged with your child for this program. Drop offs will not be permitted.
Photo & Video
We often photograph and videotape library events. These images are used for publicizing KCPL and its programs. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the photographer or a staff member know.
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