American University Library Makerspace logo

The library's Makerspace is a place where people with similar interests can come together to work on projects while sharing ideas and knowledge. It facilitates the construction of knowledge through the manipulation and creation of material objects. The space is well equipped with many different tools, materials, and information resources so patrons feel comfortable working on projects independently or in groups within the space that fall under three workbenches outlined below.

Using the Makerspace

The Makerspace may only be used by AU community members and is located on the lower level of the library. You are welcome to visit us during our open hours:

  • Fall and Spring Semesters: Monday-Friday 10am to 8pm
  • Summer and Intersession: by appointment only

During summer/intersession, please follow the steps below to check availability and make a reservation:

  • Go to Ìý
  • Click on the date you want. 
  • Confirm your selection.
  • On the date of your reservation, you will be sent a reminder email. 

For faculty interested in bringing their class to the Makerspace for an introduction or specific project, please contact us at libmakerspace@american.edu.

Contact

Email Icon libmakerspace@american.edu
Location Icon Bender Library, Lower Level

3D Creation 3D Printer, CNC Milling Machine

3D creation allows users to create a physical object from a digital model. The library's Makerspace provides the tools necessary to complete your project, including the software to design the project, resources to finding an already designed open access file, and 3D printers to print your designs.

Files for 3D printing can be submitted online using our . Files should be formatted as .STLs. Please plan ahead as prints can take anywhere from a few hours to multiple days, and a printing queue may form. 3D prints are charged a printing fee based on amount of filament used ($0.05 per gram of material).

Digital Production Poster Printing

The Digital Creation workbench includesÌý³¦¾±°ù³¦³Ü¾±³Ù²õ and a large format printerÌý

The circuits include a RaspberryÌýPiÌýwhich is an inexpensive, credit card sized computer that plugs in to a computer monitor or TV and uses a standard keyboard and mouse. The Raspberry Pi is a fun and simple way to explore computing and programming.Ìý

°Õ³ó±ð large format printer at the AU Library is reserved for academic use for current AU students,ÌýfacultyÌýand staff. Printing is not self-service and requires staff assistance. PleaseÌýplan aheadÌýto use this service as we may not be able to accommodate last minute requests.ÌýFor more information on this specific service, please visit the .Ìý

Craft Fabrication Button Making, Sewing, Power Tools

The Craft Fabrication Workbench is a community of creativity and a DIY (do-it-yourself) mentality. It is the only workbench where your final project is created by manually transforming materials into aÌýcompleteÌýnew item and where creation and design is all in one.

  • Manual and Power Tools: Hammer, Screwdriver, Wrench, Plier, Power Drill, Dremel kit, Sander
  • ³§±ð·É¾±²Ô²µ: Dress form, 
  • ±á²¹²Ô»å³¦°ù²¹´Ú³Ù¾±²Ô²µ: Soldering iron, Hot glue gun. Embroidery, Paper crafts, Carving tools