Howard County Library Glenwood Branch + Makerspace is a publicly available space designed with ages 8+ in mind. We allow for self-guided learning opportunities with STEM materials that cater to a large range of ages. We have Tinkerbins filled with exploratory and prototyping materials for budding engineers - KEVA planks, Strawbees, K’NEX, Mobilo and Lego allow for endless possibilities. Beginning coding, electrical and computer skills can be explored with Osmo, Squishy Circuits and ARTIE the drawing robot. These engage our youngest learners, while Lego Mindstorms and Arduino take it up a notch with block-style or C++ coding. In addition, we have a Recording Booth, 3-D Printers, Large Format Printer, Digital Memory Statin and Laser Cutter/Engraver to engage customers ages 14+. We offer classes and one-on-one sessions in 3-D printing, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and Laser Cutting. We also offer monthly crafting classes. All our classes free and open to the public. The only charges in our Makerspace are for the materials used - these charges are all at our cost to make the process as affordable as possible for our customers.

Customers have used the HCLS Glenwood Branch + Makerspace in a variety of ways. Several have used the laser cutter/engraver to reproduce or generate artwork for sale in Etsy shops, private sales and at stores that feature local artisans. Tech-hesitant customers have acquired the skills needed to digitize photographs and VHS tapes to preserve memories. Teens have used the recording booth to record auditions and to score music for student film projects. Customers of all ages are discovering how to create models using online CAD programs to then generate 3-D prints. Children love to experiment, prototype and build something new with the supplies in our Tinkerbins.