Renée F. Neuwald Trust Maker Space & Audio Lab
Tulsa City-County Library, Okla.
Innovation Synopsis
In October 2016, we reopened our Central Library after a three-year renovation. This complete remodel allowed us to design a creator-focused Maker Space and Audio Lab for innovators, entrepreneurs and makers of all kinds. Equipped with 3-D printers, a laser engraver, vinyl cutter, screen printing and more, our Maker Space is truly hands-on.
Challenge/Opportunity
Tulsa's oil and gas companies saw a downturn in 2015, laying off many of their workforce. This created a growing number of entrepreneurs in the community. When renovating our Central Library we deigned it with this emerging community in mind. We now offer visitors a place to work on their next great idea, develop a new skill or learn a new hobby in a supportive environment. We provide monthly orientations, along with special programming throughout the year.
Key Elements of Innovation
Innovators bring dreams to life at TCCL. Jeremy Diamond used the Maker Space to create 30 brewing tap handles for his new brewery using our laser engraver. He cut his branding cost in half, and each tap is topped with his craftsmanship. Michelle Wamego is a fashion design instructor who led her students to create a fashion show fusing technology with traditional design. Wamego worked with Maker Space staff to bring her students’ designs to life with our 3-D printers and vinyl cutter, then unveil creations on the runway.
Achieved Outcomes
Since opening in October 2016 through May 2019, our Maker Space and Audio Lab have seen:
- 1,792 individual appointments to the Audio Lab
- 553 people attend Audio Lab orientations
- 4,099 Individual Appointments to the Maker Space
- 2,147 people attend Maker Space orientations
- 56,841 visitors to the Maker Space
