By Marisa Dawson, Photos courtesy of Bennington Library
Last Wednesday, the Bennington Public Library transformed into a hub of creativity and discovery as Omaha Made New Makerspace visited as part of the library’s Summer Reading Program, giving kids and families the opportunity to explore hands-on STEM activities and emerging technology.
Participants rotated through a variety of interactive stations where they designed custom buttons, laser engraved personalized nameplates, assembled and launched model rockets, and selected 3D-printed rings to take home. Throughout the event, Makerspace staff were on hand to explain how each piece of equipment worked and answer questions from curious participants.
According to Youth Services Librarian Johnna Ware, providing opportunities like these helps introduce families to technology they may not otherwise have the chance to experience.
“Providing access to activities like these helps kids interact with technology they might not have access to otherwise,” she said. “While 3D printers have gained popularity, laser engraving and model rocket launchers are a lot harder to find!”
The event is part of the library’s broader effort to offer engaging educational programming beyond traditional library services. Ware said interest in science, technology, engineering and math programming continues to grow among local families.
“We have a year round Preschool STEAM program that continues to grow in popularity as well as an Elementary STEAM program in the summer months that has absolutely exploded in the past few years,” Ware explained.
That growing enthusiasm was evident throughout the afternoon as children eagerly moved from station to station, experimenting with different technologies while creating projects they could take home.
Ware said each activity was designed not only to be fun, but also to encourage exploration and curiosity.
“This year participants could make buttons, laser engraved name plates, model rockets they could launch on site, and 3D printed rings,” she exclaimed. “Each participant is encouraged to engage with all of the stations and the Makerspace workers are knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions they might have about the technology.”
Introducing community members to equipment such as laser engravers and button makers can have an impact that extends beyond a single afternoon.
“Providing access to hand-on unique experiences enables our community to expand their technology knowledge and possibly even inspire someone with a new career path or hobby,” Ware said.
Events like Omaha Made New Makerspace also reflect how libraries have evolved into places where learning happens in many different forms. While books remain at the heart of library services, today’s libraries also provide opportunities for creativity, collaboration and lifelong learning.
“The modern library is no longer just a place to check out books; our makerspace event confirms it is a vital community hub for lifelong learning. Citizens of all ages gather here to engage, connect, and discover!”
As the event wrapped up, participants left with more than personalized keepsakes. They also gained exposure to new technology and skills they may not have encountered elsewhere.
Summing up the afternoon, Ware described the atmosphere in simple terms: “The Omaha Made New Makerspace event brought spectacular technology for our patrons to explore and have a blast with!”
