Woodlands Library Innovate Makerspace Opens

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – The Montgomery County Memorial Library System (MCMLS) is officially ushering in a new era of innovation this Friday, May 17, 2024, with the grand opening of its state-of-the-art makerspace, “Innovate at MCMLS – Barbara Bush Branch.” The highly anticipated ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Barbara Bush Branch Library, located at 6817 Woodlands Parkway.

This marks a significant expansion of the library’s offerings, bringing high-tech creative and educational tools directly to the heart of The Woodlands community and beyond. While the cutting-edge facility has been quietly operational since a soft opening in February, Friday’s event celebrates the full public launch of a transformative project that has been in development since 2021.

Innovate at MCMLS is a tech-forward hub designed for hands-on learning, creation, and collaboration. It is packed with professional-grade equipment that many individuals and small businesses wouldn’t typically have access to, effectively serving as a community workshop for the digital age. Patrons will find an array of advanced 3D printers, including Prusa MK4s, a Glowforge laser cutter for precise engraving and cutting, and a CNC machine for detailed fabrication. For those interested in textiles and personalizing items, the space features an embroidery machine and a vinyl cutter.

Aspiring podcasters and photographers can take advantage of a dedicated sound-proof recording studio and a professional photography booth. The makerspace also offers immersive virtual reality (VR) equipment, inviting users to explore new digital realms. High-performance computers are loaded with industry-standard software, including Adobe Creative Suite and various CAD (Computer-Aided Design) programs, ensuring users have the tools needed for complex projects. All equipment use is supported by trained library staff and a regular schedule of workshops, introductory classes, and open lab times.

The development of Innovate at MCMLS was made possible through significant community investment and strategic funding. A foundational gift of $250,000 from The John P. and Cynthia Ann Johnson Foundation provided a substantial kickstart to the project. Additional critical funding came from the Montgomery County Commissioners Court, utilizing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds specifically earmarked for community enrichment and digital infrastructure improvements. Grants from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) further supported the initiative.

Precinct 3 Commissioner James Noack highlighted the makerspace’s crucial role in fostering essential skills. “This facility isn’t just about access to advanced equipment; it’s about bridging the digital divide, promoting vital STEM education, and equipping our residents with the practical skills needed for tomorrow’s workforce,” Noack stated. “Making expensive, professional technology accessible to everyone in Montgomery County is a monumental step forward.”

Library Director Holly Hansen emphasized the broader impact on the region. “Innovate at MCMLS truly embodies our library’s evolving mission. It will serve as a dynamic catalyst for innovation, cultivate an entrepreneurial spirit among our patrons, and directly contribute to workforce development across Montgomery County,” Hansen said. “We are incredibly excited to see the creativity, learning, and new ventures that will emerge from this space.”

The establishment of makerspaces within public libraries is a growing national trend, transforming traditional library roles into active community learning and production centers. These spaces offer unique opportunities for hands-on exploration, skill-building, and collaborative projects, fostering creativity and problem-solving in a supportive environment.

The public is warmly invited to attend Friday’s grand opening ceremony, which will include remarks from county officials and library leadership, followed by the official ribbon-cutting. Following the formal program, library staff will be on hand to offer tours of the new facility and provide demonstrations of the equipment, giving attendees a firsthand look at the creative possibilities.

To ensure safe and effective use, patrons interested in utilizing the equipment within Innovate at MCMLS will need to complete an orientation session. The makerspace will operate during regular Barbara Bush Branch Library hours, with specific dedicated open lab times and a comprehensive schedule of workshops.

For more information about “Innovate at MCMLS,” including upcoming workshop schedules, equipment availability, and how to register for orientation sessions, please visit the Montgomery County Memorial Library System’s official website at www.countylibrary.org or contact the Barbara Bush Branch Library directly at (936) 788-8318.