New design centre added to Sarnia Library Makerspace

Wyoming, ON - Sarnia Library's Makerspace has added a Design Centre, with many new technologies and software programs, to its collection. The addition is funded through the Government of Ontario's Improving Library Digital Services Grant.

Included is a 3D Scanner; a Wacom Tablet with 3D capabilities; a photo scanner to digitize photos, slides and negatives; and audio visual equipment which includes an audio recorder and camera. A computer software package, Adobe Creative Cloud, is also available and includes Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Lightroom and more.

"There is a demand for this type of technology from the public, especially young people who enjoy creative works but may not necessarily have the resources to purchase their own equipment," says Vanitia Campbell, Children's Coordinator (Makerspace) for Lambton County Library.

The 3D Scanner device analyzes an existing object and creates data on its shape which then can be used to create a duplicate with the 3D printer. The Wacom Tablet captures an image being drawn by hand using the tablet and computer, into a digital form. The green screen and camera allow an existing object or person, taken against the green screen, to be easily incorporated into existing pictures.

"We will be adding a rotary tool for the laser cutter soon," says Campbell. "Corel Draw, which is used extensively for the laser cutter, will be added to the Design Centre later in the year for patrons to create designs before booking the laser cutter."

Patrons, with a library card and a reservation, are welcome to use the Design Centre. For more information on the equipment available or to reserve the equipment, contact the Makerspace at 519-337-3291 or email makerspace@county-lambton.on.ca.

Lambton County Library offers a variety of free materials and services to meet the leisure and informational needs of the community through its 26 branches, bookmobile and website. eReader lending, multi-media resources, online services, programs and Internet access are all available. Discover a library in your neighbourhood, visit www.lclibrary.ca.

-30-

Please contact:

Vanitia Campbell
Children's Services Coordinator-Makerspace
County of Lambton
Telephone: 519-845-3324 ext. 5230