
Welcome to the Makerspace!
We are excited to welcome you to our Makerspace! We invite patrons of all ages to try out new technologies and creative tools including our:
- 3D printing station
- sewing machine
- vinyl cutter
- laser cutter
- VHS conversion station
- button maker
NEW! Memories Media Lab - Book now to digitize and preserve your cherished memories!
- High-Quality Slide & Negative Scanning
- VHS Home Movie Digitizing
- High-Speed Photo Scanning
- 8mm & Super 8 Film Digitizing
- Cassette Tape Audio Digitizing
- Touch-Free Overhead Scanning
- Slide & Negative Quick Scanning & Viewing
- Cerlox Document Binding
Upcoming Events
Fantasy Mapmaking
Step into the world of fantasy mapmaking with artist Ingrid Janssen! Whether you're inspired by epic quests, enchanted forests, hidden kingdoms, or mystical creatures, you'll learn mapmaking techniques used to bring your legendary locations to life! Please call the Makerspace at 705-325-2556 to register.
Youth ages 12–18 are invited to register free of charge for a teen-only session on Thursday, August 20, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. (This program is FULL, call to join the Waitlist.)
Adults ages 18+ can register for a session on Thursday, August 27, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Library membership is required. A $10 materials fee is payable at the beginning of the adult session.
Makerspace Drop-In: Pirate Gear
Drop-in to the Makerspace on Saturday, September 5 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to get ready for the Port of Orillia Pirate Party and design and decorate fun pirate-themed creations to match your unique swashbuckling style! While you're here, be among the first to get a sneak peek at the Makerspace's newest addition, the ChompSaw! Free. Recommended for ages 4+.
FAQs
When is the Makerspace Open?
- Tuesday–Thursday: 1-7 p.m.
- Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Closed 1–2 p.m.)
- Saturday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. (Closed 1–2 p.m.)
- *(We are CLOSED Sundays and Mondays.)
*Please note: The Makerspace will have adjusted/extended hours on the following dates
- Tuesday, August 18: Open 1-5 p.m.
- Wednesday, August 19: Open 1-5 p.m.
- Thursday, August 20: Open 1-4:30 p.m. (Open 5:30-7:30 p.m. for Fantasy Mapmaking for Teens)
- Saturday, August 22: Open 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (Family Glass Fusion Workshop will take place in the Program Rooms at 2:30 p.m.)
- Tuesday, August 25: Open 1-5 p.m.
- Wednesday, August 26: Open 1-5 p.m.
- Thursday, August 27: Open 1-4:30 p.m. (Open 5:30-7:30 p.m. for Fantasy Mapmaking for Adults)
- Tuesday, September 1: Closed
- Wednesday, September 2: Closed
- Thursday, September 3: Closed
- Saturday, September 5: Open 2-4 p.m. (Open 10-1 for Pirate Gear Drop-In)
- Thursday, September 17: Open 1-5 p.m. (Open from 5:30-7 p.m. for Teen Makerspace Night: Paint Night)
- Friday, September 18: Open 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (Open from 2:30-4 p.m. for Crafternoon For Older Adults: Wooden Tea Box)
- Wednesday, September 30: Library Closed
What can I create in the Makerspace?
The possibilities are endless! Laser cut a personalized puzzle, 3D print spare parts, create personalized t-shirts, print posters for your events and so much more! Do you have a project in mind but not sure where to start? Contact us and we'll help guide you in your creative process!
Who Can Use the Makerspace?
The OPL Makerspace is available to anyone with a valid Orillia Public Library card and who has signed the Makerspace Agreement. If you don't have a library card, you can learn more about membership options here. Anyone who is not eligible for a free Orillia Public Library card must purchase a paid membership to use Makerspace equipment.
Do I need to make a booking?
Booking is recommended to ensure availability. Please fill out our Makerspace Booking Form and a staff member will be in touch to confirm your time.
Walk-ins are welcome, however equipment use and staff assistance will be subject to availability. Those who have made appointments will have priority access to equipment and staff time.
Patrons may only have one future booking at a time. Once a scheduled appointment is complete, you will be welcome to make another booking.
Due to the demand in the Makerspace, we may be required to cancel your appointment if you are more than 15 minutes late for your booking.
Can I bring my own materials?
Most equipment in the Makerspace can become damaged if the wrong types of materials are used. For this reason, we provide approved materials to use in our machines (some at an additional cost). If you would like to bring in your own material, it must be approved by a Makerspace staff member.
Customers under 13 years of age need to be accompanied by an adult to use Maker equipment.