ideaLAB

Examples of projects done in ideaLABs across Denver: sewing, repairs, 3D printing, beading, and more.

We're Open!

The labs at the Hadley Branch, Hampden Branch, Montbello Branch, Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales Branch, and the Sam Gary Branch libraries are open to the public for drop-in all-ages making!  At these locations, open lab will be from 1 PM - 5:30 PM Tuesday through Friday, and 12 PM - 4:30 PM on Saturdays.

The SM Energy ideaLAB at the Central Library will remain closed for the time being while the building is undergoing renovations. 

What's New?

We will have hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies available that we will encourage everyone to use, and masks and gloves for anyone who might wish to use them. 

We have made some adjustments to 3D Printing and Laser Cutting to allow you to have more hands-on access. Check out each of the links to learn more about each specific process.

Our audio recording studios are open as of March 1, 2022! 

Make with us this summer!

MakerCamp is a free opportunity for youth to do a deeper dive exploring specific projects and learn new skills, tools, or technology with the ideaLAB! Each of our branch ideaLABs will host a series of 5 workshops on various topics. We're happy to have you join us for any or all of the workshops! No pre-registration nor prior experience is required, but attendance will be limited, see the links below for more details.

  • Hadley Branch Library
    Tuesday, June 14 - Saturday, June 18
    10 AM - 12 PM
    Ages 12+
  • Rodolfo "Corky" Gonzales Branch Library
    Tuesday, July 12 - Saturday, July 16
  • Montbello Branch Library
    Tuesday, July 19 - Saturday, July 23
  • Hampden Branch Library
    Tuesday, July 26 - Saturday July 30
    1 PM - 2:30 PM
    Ages 9+
  • Sam Gary Branch Library
    Tuesday, August 9 - Saturday, August 13

What is an ideaLAB?

ideaLABs are makerspaces: free community spaces to make things. Do you need to produce videos, create games, make music, or learn about electronics?  We aim to provide the tools and resources you need to make your projects happen. The tools available varies from lab to lab - please check the equipment and software lists to find the space that has what you need. The lab is free to anyone – no library card necessary!

 

Where are they and when are they open?

There are ideaLABs across the Denver Public Library system. Equipment varies by location.

 

Keep Making!

Learn Something New

Join an upcoming DIY program, check out our Instructables page for step-by-step tutorials for a variety of projects, or watch one of our YouTube videos

 

Make Something at Home

example projects made with Make It cards

Tired of screens and videos? We're producing Make It Cards in English and Spanish - project ideas using easy-to-find supplies. Find them distributed at our bookmobile visits, on our Instructables page, or download one here: