Makerspace

What is a Makerspace?

A Makerspace is a library learning lab where people of all ages can design, experiment, and create using technology and tools. Just as the library connects our community with books and information, the Makerspace extends this mission by offering hands-on access to ideas, skills, and resources for lifelong learning.

Rooted in our vision of the library as a gathering place for creation and collaboration, the Makerspace empowers you to explore new technologies, build projects that matter, and develop practical skills in a supportive environment.

Location

The Makerspace is located on the ground floor of the Picton Branch Library (208 Main St., Picton).

Access to the Makerspace

Our Makerspace is open to all. Reserve your Makerspace session by calling 613-476-5962 or emailing techhelp@peclibrary.org. Walk-in access may be permitted if no prior bookings exist, but users are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee availability. To ensure a safe experience, please follow the access and safety guidelines for each piece of equipment provided during orientation. All users must complete orientation before use.

Makerspace Equipment

Click the titles below for more information.

Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D Printer

Bambu Lab X1 Carbon: Print high-quality 3D models.

Access: Complete an orientation to learn printer operation and file preparation. To book your orientation, call 613-476-59672 or email techhelp@peclibrary.org. Alternatively, send your .STL file for printing to techhelp@peclibrary.org.

Build Volume: 256 x 256 x 256 mm (10 x 10 x 10 inches)
Print Speed: Up to 500 mm/s
Layer Resolution: 0.1–0.4 mm
Filament Material Supported at the Library: PLA (Polylactic Acid). PLA is derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It is one of the safest filaments for public environments. It’s widely used in educational and public settings due to its ease of use and safety profile.
Filament colour: A variety of colours are available. Check with staff for current colour offerings.
Filetype Supported at the Library: STL (Stereolithography), the standard for 3D printing, representing 3D models as triangular meshes.
Filament Cost: $1 to start plus $0.03 per minute of printing time. (A 90-minute print would therefore cost $3.70.)

Safety: The 3D printer is enclosed with a built-in carbon filter to minimize emissions. PLA filament is biodegradable and does not emit harmful fumes under normal printing conditions (extrusion temperatures typically 180–220°C). Do not open the printer during operation, and report any issues to staff immediately. Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult.

Shining3D Einstar Handheld 3D Scanner

Shining3D Einstar Handheld 3D Scanner: This scanner supports projects like 3D printing, digital archiving, art, and education. Its eye-safe infrared light is perfect for scanning people.

Access: Available by appointment. Patrons must complete orientation on setup, calibration, and scanning techniques (e.g., slow, steady movements to avoid tracking loss). To book your orientation, call 613-476-59672 or email techhelp@peclibrary.org.

Scanning Technology: Infrared VCSEL structured light (Class 1 laser, eye-safe)
Point Distance (Resolution): 0.1–3.0 mm (adjustable for portrait or object scanning)
Scanning Speed: Up to 14 frames per second (FPS)
Working Distance: 160–1400 mm (flexible for small and large objects)
Minimum Scan Size: 100 x 100 x 100 mm
Maximum Scan Size: Dependent on computer RAM (larger RAM supports bigger objects)
Cameras: 3 Infrared VCSEL projectors, 2 stereo depth cameras, 1 RGB camera for color texture capture
Output Formats: OBJ, STL, PLY, P3, 3MF (compatible with 3D printers and CAD software)
System Requirements: Windows 10/11 (64-bit), NVIDIA GTX1050 or higher, ≥4GB video memory, Intel i7-7700H or better, ≥16GB RAM; macOS Ventura 13+, M1 Pro or higher, ≥32GB RAM
Weight: ~600 g (lightweight with silicone case and wrist strap)
Features: Hair Mode for human scanning, outdoor scanning capability, auto-alignment, smart tracking, data rewind function, built-in detail enhancement
Accessories: Carrying case, silicone case, positioning markers, lens cloth, carrying strap, power supply, USB cable

Safety Note: The Einstar’s Class 1 laser is safe for eyes, making it suitable for scanning people and objects in a public library setting.

xTool M1 Ultra Multitool

xTool M1 Ultra: The M1 Ultra is a versatile 4-in-1 crafting machine that combines laser cutting, laser engraving, blade cutting, and pen drawing.

Access and Safety: All users must complete an orientation to learn operation. The xTool M1 Ultra is safe for library use with proper ventilation, ensured by our makerspace’s setup. Users must follow material and operational guidelines.

Reservations: Book your session to start crafting! Materials are available for purchase, or bring your own (approved by staff). Call 613-476-59672 or email techhelp@peclibrary.org to get started.

The M1 Ultra has user-friendly software that is perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike. The built-in camera simplifies project setup, while the air assist ensures smooth, professional finishes.

Working Area: 385 x 300 mm (laser), 180 x 180 mm (blade cutting)
Laser Power: 10W diode laser
Capabilities: Laser cutting, engraving, blade cutting, pen drawing
Materials: Wood, acrylic, leather, paper, select metals (engraving)
Features: Auto-focus, built-in camera, air assist
Time Limit: Due to the machine’s elevated noise levels, usage is limited to a maximum of one hour per session.

Mac Mini

Workstation: Apple M2 Pro.

Software: DaVinci Resolve, a powerful, all-in-one digital media software suite designed for professional video editing, color grading, visual effects, motion graphics, and audio post-production.

Access: Walk-in access may be permitted if no prior bookings exist, but users are encouraged to book in advance to guarantee availability. To book your session, call 613-476-59672 or email techhelp@peclibrary.org.

Plustek OpticFilm 35mm Film and Slide Scanner

Plustek OpticFilm 35mm Film and Slide Scanner: Digitize 35mm negatives and mounted slides with exceptional quality.

This scanner digitizes 35mm negatives and mounted slides. Featuring a high-resolution 7200 dpi CCD sensor, the OpticFilm captures every detail with vivid colors, producing images comparable to a full-frame DSLR (up to 68.9 megapixels).

Equipped with infrared dust and scratch removal, it ensures professional-grade scans without extensive post-processing. The scanner supports multiple 35mm film types, including color negatives, black-and-white film, and Kodachrome slides, with optional panoramic film holders for specialty formats.

Image Sensor: CCD (charge-coupled device)
Light Source: LED (light-emitting diode)
Hardware Resolution: 7200 dpi (dots per inch)
Modes: IntelliScan, QuickScan
Software: Silverfast

Recording Studio

Recording Studio: Whether you’re producing a podcast, recording music, or creating voiceovers, our acoustically-treated studio is designed for creators of all levels.

Access: Our recording studio is open by appointment to all library members. A technical orientation is mandatory prior to booking your session. Food and drink are not permitted. All ages are welcome with training; children under 16 require adult supervision. To book your orientation, call 613-476-59672 or email techhelp@peclibrary.org. Already completed your orientation? Schedule your studio time by clicking HERE.

Radial Power-1 Power Conditioner: Protects your recordings by delivering clean, stable power to all studio equipment. It filters out electrical noise and surges, ensuring your microphones, interface, and monitors perform without hums, buzzes, or interruptions, even during long sessions.
Audient iD44 Audio Interface: Features four XLR combo jacks (mic: 3kΩ balanced; line: 10kΩ balanced) and one high-Z instrument jack (1MegΩ unbalanced) for versatile recording of vocals, guitars, and more.
Four Shure MV7 Dynamic Microphones: Deliver broadcast-quality sound with cardioid patterns, perfect for podcasts, vocals, or interviews, mounted on four Shure articulating mic boom stands for flexible positioning.
Shure SRH840A Reference Headphones (x1) & SRH440A Studio Headphones (x3): Provide precise audio monitoring for recording and editing.
Two Neumann KH 80 Active Studio Monitors: Equipped with 4" woofers and 1" dome tweeters (120W lows, 70W highs) for accurate, high-fidelity playback.
All-in-One Windows 11 PC with Cubase LE 12: Powers your projects with a professional digital audio workstation for multi-track recording, editing, and mixing.

VHS Tapes

Digitize Your VHS Home Videos: Our VHS digitization station is available for patrons to easily convert their analog tapes into digital formats, preserving those special memories for years to come.

How It Works

Reserve a Time Slot: Contact us to schedule your session at 613-476-5962 or techhelp@peclibrary.org.
Use Our Equipment: Our user-friendly setup includes a VHS player, capture device, and laptop computer.
Digitize Your VHS Tapes: Use computer software to convert your VHS content to a digital file. Save your files to a USB drive (bring your own storage device) or upload to personal cloud storage.

Guidlines

Time Limitations: VHS digitization happens in real time. (A sixty-minute tape will take sixty minutes to digitize.) Multiple tapes can be digitized if time allows. Be sure to schedule sufficient time to complete your project.
Tape Condition: Tapes must be free of damage. We reserve the right to refuse tapes that may harm our equipment.
Storage: Bring a USB drive or external hard drive with sufficient storage (at least 4GB per hour of video is recommended).
Cost: Digitization is free.
Support: Staff will set up the digitization equipment for you and initiate the digitization. Patrons are responsible for monitoring the project afterwards.

Loanable Technology Resources

Enhance your projects, presentations, or events with our range of loanable technology resources.

Available Technology Resources

Projectors and Projector Screens: Quality projectors and portable screens for presentations, screenings, or events.
PA Systems: Portable public address systems for amplified sound at gatherings or performances.
Handheld Microphones: Reliable wired mics for speeches, performances, or recordings.
Audio Interfaces: Devices to connect microphones and instruments to a computer for high-quality audio recording.
Lighting Kits: Adjustable lighting solutions for video production, photography, or event ambiance.

How to Borrow

Reserve Your Gear: Contact us to check availability and reserve equipment by calling 613-476-5962 or emailing techhelp@peclibrary.org.
Pick Up and Return: Visit the Picton Branch Library during open hours to collect and return equipment. Our staff will provide a brief tutorial if needed.
Requirements: A valid library membership is required to borrow equipment. Patrons must also complete our Equipment Lending Agreement Form.
Loan Period: Equipment can be borrowed for up to 7 days.

Guidelines

Use equipment responsibly and return it in good condition.
Report any issues or damage to library staff immediately.
Late returns may result in restrictions on future borrowing.