3D Printing Opportunities coming to OCPL

The Oconee County Public Library recently purchased an Ultimaker2 3D printer with Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant funds administered by the State Library of South Carolina. Stacie Powell, Youth Services Librarian at OCPL received a $17,100 LSTA grant to enhance STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) learning at OCPL. With the grant funds she has been hosting monthly Science Saturdays at all four library branches, enhanced the materials collection of the library by purchasing STEAM/STEM resources for patron check-out, introduced the library’s popular telescope kit check-out program, hosted a hands-on two week STEAM camp for 7th and 8th grade students during July 2015, and has now purchased the 3D printer to be used for ‘makerspace’ programs at the library. Makerspaces are creative, DIY spaces where people can gather to create, invent, and learn. Makerspaces are becoming increasingly popular in libraries because they offer the opportunity to create things that are not usually possible with the resources available to individuals at home. The first OCPL makerspace program will be the September Science Saturday. It will take place on Sept. 19 from 10am to 11am at the Walhalla Library. Attendees will get hands on demonstrations using the new 3D printer as well as an opportunity to play around with some of the libraries other makerspace equipment. Future library programs featuring the 3D printer will be offered throughout the year for both students and adults. The September program is best for children nine years and older.