Make a space for new creative library features

The Vale of Glamorgan Council has opened two new innovative creative spaces in libraries across the county, offering a wide range of digital crafting services.

• Monday, 20 January 2025

  Vale of Glamorgan

Makerspace provides visitors with access to a variety of different tools and equipment – including a 3D Printer, a Cricut Maker 3, a Heat Press, a DSLR Camera and much more.

The state-of-the-art facilities at Barry and Penarth libraries aim to help people of all ages improve their digital and creative skills.

Each location offers a number of exciting events throughout the year, including 3D Printing and Coding workshops for children and teens during school holidays.

Simon Alexander, the Makerspace Development Officer, said: “We’ve been really inspired by the response from the creative communities around our library service since we launched our Makerspaces in Penarth and Barry. 

 

“From 3D printing models of Napoleonic warships, game characters, replacement axles for RC cars and conceptual art pieces to illustrations and signage - the enthusiasm from people of all ages and the connections we’ve built with local artists and entrepreneurs drives us to keep developing the service, and to share it further around the Vale.

Sharing feedback about their experience at Makerspace, local artist Inga K said: “Thank you so much for supporting my project ideas and for demonstrating the laser cutting techniques at the Makerspace in Barry Library. 

 

“As a local artist without access to this technology, I found the experience eye-opening and inspiring. It has expanded my understanding of opportunities for collaboration and creativity, allowing me to take my ideas from the sketchbook to product design.”

All sessions at Makerspace are free to book, and visitors can either bring along their own materials or purchase materials directly at the libraries.