GETTING CRAFTY

STC Creative is a hit at St. Charles Public Library, along with the return of in-person programming at renovated facility

By Patti MacMillan | Photo provided by St. Charles Public Library

More than a year into its newly renovated home, the St. Charles Public Library is more than hitting its stride.

“The feedback from the community has been very positive,” Pam Salomone, communications and marketing manager, says of the $18.6 million modernization project. “People are coming and using our space again, and they’re especially excited for our programming.”

In 2020, the library halted in-person programming to make way for the extensive construction demanded of the project. Meanwhile the pandemic scuttled plans to host anything off-site, Salomone recalls.

But the library is now in a place where lifelong learners can partake in a wide variety of offerings. Among the most popular are programs that take place in the do-it-yourself makerspace known as STC Creative. Makerspaces have become something of a trend in communityoriented spaces such as libraries, bringing the necessary technology to

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patrons who are eager for the chance to create unique pieces. “The space provides patrons with access to maker tools and the design software that accompanies many of them,” says Sarah Pistilli, the institution’s technology educator. “Some of my favorites are programs that repurpose materials. We have made wreaths using pages from withdrawn books, gift bags from children’s book dust jackets, and photo frames out of book covers.”

The space has seen a steady increase in use. The most popular tools are the Cricut, a sophisticated cutting machine, and the heat press, which allows patrons to make custom apparel, among other items. “People love that they can stop by, craft and leave. There’s no need to take over the dining room in order to make something,” Pistilli says. “Not only do we offer access to software and tools, but we can offer patrons the use of subscriptions that enhance the software. I enjoy seeing people return to STC Creative with more confidence in their abilities.”

Staff anticipates interest will continue to grow, especially as the holiday season approaches. The space is open by appointment to library cardholders and St. Charles Community Unit School District 303 teachers and staff. In order to use a tool, a user must first complete an in-person class or watch an online demonstration video.

Upcoming STC Creative programs and additional information can be found at www.scpld.org.

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