Innovation Pointe is now open

Innovation Pointe, the new makerspace within MidPointe Library West Chester, is now open as a hub of creativity in eastern Butler County. Serving as a S.T.E.A.M. space for young people, and a small business incubator for adults, Innovation Pointe is the first public makerspace in Butler County.

A S.T.E.A.M. space for young people and a small business incubator for adults.

Innovation Pointe features 3-D printers, laser cutter/engraver, vinyl printer, button maker, sublimation printer and presses, sewing machine, embroidery machine, Cricut, soldering iron and film/video conversion I equipment. Use of machines in the makerspace is free, with patrons only paying for consumable items.

The equipment is ready for use and staff are on hand to assist with training (see more info below). Badging classes and programming will launch soon. We can’t wait to see what you create, make and innovate!

GET STARTED

Innovation Pointe is a “Do-it-Yourself” learning center where patrons of any experience level gain practical skills through hands-on learning.

Use any piece of equipment in 3 EASY STEPS

1. Have a MidPointe Library card.

2. Have completed and submitted a waiver.

3. Be badged for that piece of equipment.

WHAT IS BADGING?

Badging is a training process that certifies a patron to use equipment. Think of it like earning a merit badge—you learn a skill and then demonstrate your learning to earn your badge.

HOW DO I EARN A BADGE?

This depends on the type of equipment. Some equipment (button maker, digital conversion equipment, laminator, large flat heat press, sewing machine and soldering iron) requires less training. For these pieces of equipment, you must complete “Competency Badging” which includes watching or reading provided material and demonstrating basic skills. To utilize equipment that is more intensive or complex (3-D printer and scanner, laser engraver and cutter, sublimation machines, vinyl printer, Cricut and embroidery machine), you must complete “Beginner Badging”. This entails attending a staff-led training and then demonstrating use and safety procedures.

See an Innovation Pointe staff member to sign up for badging.