Grant to give community access to 3D printer, other innovative technology

The community of Maricopa will have access to a “Makerspace” with a 3D printer, computers, robotic and Arduino kits and other innovative technology starting in August – thanks to a $44,400 Library Services and Technology Act grant award.

The grant is part of a partnership between Maricopa High School, Maricopa Public Library, Maricopa Center for Entrepreneurship, and Maricopa Ak-Chin Science Technology Engineering Arts Math (STEAM) Foundation, according to an MUSD press release.

MHS teacher and librarian Robin Shoup said the Makerspace will be located in a small conference room in the high school library. The computers in the library study area will be available to students and the community.

The community will be invited to use the Makerspace from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Shoup said. The space will be available to the high school Maker Club after school on Mondays, and teachers may include the technology in their curriculum so students may access the space during school hours.

Shoup, who wrote the grant with the help of the community, is project director of the grant.

“A Makerspace is a place where like-minded people come together to learn, create and exchange ideas … and design,” she said. “It is all about learning and exploring and creating.”

“We’re thoroughly excited about the (grant),” said Tom Baxter, director of the Maricopa Center for Entrepreneurship. “MCE will provide support and training for the teachers.”

“From MCE’s perspective, we get to engage with kids and parents who are entrepreneurial and innovative – that’s what we’re interested in at MCE.”

A 3D printer is technology that allows people to print a prototype of their designs. Arduino kits teach how electronics works.

“This is part of a trend in libraries towards participatory learning,” Shoup said, adding the grant is for one year but the group plans to look for additional funding beyond that.

The date of the grand opening in August has not yet been set, she said. The space will continue through July 2015 with day camps next June.

For more information, contact Shoup at [email protected].

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