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The following article was submitted by Tony Plekan, a Public Services Associate at the Manitowoc Public Library.
Manitowoc Public Library’s Idea Box offers a variety of technology for creative expression and we are proud to announce the next available equipment—a Glowforge 3D Laser Printer! This unique device allows you to cut, engrave, and score designs on wood, leather, plastic, and more. The Library will begin offering classes on the Glowforge starting this month. Once you have completed the class, you will be “badged,” meaning that you can reserve a time to use the Glowforge at the Library on your own.
Glowforge offers an assortment of free designs and unique images. You can also upload your own artwork! Add lettering to a one of kind birthday present, use floral images for wedding gifts, or make unique pieces for your next board game night. The possibilities are endless!
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Tony Plekan
The Glowforge has been so much fun to create with! Check out a few of the designs we have made with the Glowforge. There are more images and information about the Glowforge on our website at https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/services/idea-box-makerspace
If you’re interested in trying your hand at the Glowforge, you’ll need to attend a one-time badging session. Just visit our website to register for a Glowforge badging session. In a badging session, you can expect staff to show you how to operate the machine safely. Due to its complexity and the manufacturer’s recommendations, you must be at least 18-years old to use the Glowforge. Although the Glowforge is less intimidating than it sounds, new users should at the very least be relatively comfortable engaging with technology.
Glowforge badging sessions will be available in the coming weeks. Here are the first scheduled sessions (please sign up for only one session):
Wednesday, March 22, from 5:30–7 PM
Friday, March 24, from 2–3:30 PM
Wednesday, April 5, from 5:30–7 PM
Space is extremely limited and registration is required. Please visit our website to sign up. Registration for the March classes opens on Monday, March 13, and the April session on Thursday, March 27. Keep an eye on our events calendar as more sessions may be added. On-demand badging is not offered. If registration is full or you can’t make any of these classes, don’t worry! We’ll have more training sessions throughout the year.
Once you have completed the badging session and you’re ready to create, you will be able to reserve a time to use the Glowforge at Manitowoc Public Library. I am thrilled about this new opportunity for our patrons to express their creativity and make some truly remarkable projects. We thank you for your enthusiasm for the Glowforge and are so happy to make it available to the public. We hope to see you at one of our upcoming badging sessions!
Other Upcoming Idea Box Badging Sessions at Manitowoc Public Library:
3D Printer Tuesday, March 14, from 6–7:30 PM
Registration opens February 27 at 9 AM
Tuesday, April 11, from 6–7:30 PM
Registration opens March 27 at 9 AM
Tuesday, May 16, from 6–7:30 PM
Registration opens May 1 at 9 AM
Sewing Machine Tuesday, April 18, from 3–4 PM
Registration opens April 4 at 9 AM
Wednesday, May 10, from 5–6 PM
Registration opens April 26 at 9 AM
When registration opens, visit https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/services/idea-box-makerspace to sign up. Maximum of four attendees per session.