The hum of a Glowforge, the beat of a sewing machine needle, or the buzz of a 3D printer bringing a digital design into the physical world layer by layer—these are just a few of the sounds you might expect when visiting the Silverdale, opens a new window or Little Boston, opens a new window makerspace.
The Silverdale branch quietly began offering makerspace programming in August 2025. Though there is no dedicated space for the makerspace, "that limitation led to creativity," says Branch Manager Ana Cuprill Comas. "A portable, pop-up makerspace model. What started as a workaround has become a strength, offering flexibility now and the potential for mobile makerspace programming at outreach events and community spaces in the future."
Launching the makerspaces was a long time in the making. When Ana was working as a youth services librarian at the Little Boston branch, she heard ideas about makerspaces, and the more she learned, the more she wanted to begin acquiring tools for the branch that weren't just about acquiring equipment, but, "building staff knowledge, learning alongside one another, and laying the groundwork for a futre in which the community could engage with emerging technology in meaningful ways."
The Little Boston branch staff researched, advocated, and eventually purchased a Glowforge laser cutter—a machine made by a Seattle company that uses lasers to cut and engrave hand-drawn or computer-illustrated designs into all sorts of materials, like wood, metal, leather, and glass.
By the time Little Boston acquired a Glowforge, Ana had moved into leadership at the Silverdale branch. With support from the Public Services Support department and library leadership, the Silverdale team began developing a makerspace pilot project as well...then they hired Amelia as the adult services librarian in December 2024. Nearly immediately, she began researching how to make a Kitsap public library makerspace into a reality.
"I visited various makerspaces in Kitsap, Tacoma, and King County to get an idea of how they've structured their programs," Amelia said. "I understood that we have different limitations, but I wanted to figure out how we could best offer access to things that we do have."
Now, Silverdale offers monthly makerspace programs, teaching participants how to use equipment like a Cricut cutting machine, sublimation printer, or heat press, and hosting open labs for teens and adults.
Amelia says that since its launch, they've seen community interest growing around the idea of "making." "While we can only accommodate so many patrons each month, our waitlists continue to get longer and longer every time."
Meanwhile, the Little Boston branch is now home to even more makerspace tools, including a Cricut and two sewing machines. The branch hosts "Maker Monday" programs at 3 pm on the fourth Monday of the month. Each program encourages patrons to use the makerspace through guided classes such as sticker-making, key-fob creation, and Glowforge earring design.
And Silverdale's makerspace's popularity only continues to grow. "Since launching, growth has looked less like a single spike and more like a conversation with the community," said Ana. "Each program helps us learn more about what people want to make, how they prefer to learn, and who in the community might become collaborators, mentors, or partners."
Already, the makerspaces are becoming not just another part of the library that's useful and facilitates learning, but a place where memories are made and self-discovery is possible.
"One moment that captures the heart of the makerspace involved a group of teens participating in a workshop to create microwaveable self-care warming bags. They arrived expecting to hand sew, but once introduced to the sewing machines, their confidence grew quickly. Within minutes, they weren't just learning, they were teaching each other." Ana said. "By the end of the session, the room was buzzing with conversation. Teens eagerly talked about showing their projects to their parents, brainstorming what they might make next, and imagining bigger projects like learning to sew clothing. Several reflected on how much skill and effort goes into making garments, expressing a new appreciation for the work behind everyday items."
"It was a powerful reminder that makerspace programming isn't just about tools, it's about confidence, collaboration, and helping young people see themselves as capable creators."
Ready to start making? Find all upcoming makerspace events at KRL.org/Make.
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