The Studio at the Library, the Champaign Public Library’s new 8,000-square-foot lower-level space, will offer an “open house” Oct. 7-8 to celebrate the opening.
The Studio is a multi-dimensional facility that will gain usage throughout the week: Primarily by teens during weekend afternoons, by adults for creative workshops in the evenings, and by all community members on weekends.
“It’s really vibrant and doesn’t feel like a lower level,” said Tricia Duzan, the library’s deputy director. “It’s not disconnected. It feels like a part of the library.”
The area previously served as storage, though the redesign is so complete it makes that fact hard to believe. The space now includes two sound-proof recording studios, a green screen, a computer lab, a maker space, 3D printers, Glowforge laser printers, Circut machines and a gaming area, among other options.
This weekend’s open house will run from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday and noon-6 p.m. on Sunday. From Oct. 9-13, The Studio will be open for tours at 10 a.m. It will be open on weekends starting Oct. 14. The Teen Lounge will be open 3-4:30 p.m. on Oct. 9-12.
Patrons will be able to reserve The Studio’s tools and recording booths during dedicated times. The Book-a-Librarian program will also be an option. Items such as the gaming devices and computer lab are available on a walk-in basis.
Crafty Adults, Writer’s Workshops and Tech Workshops will be conducted in a space that includes moveable tables and cleanup areas.
For complete details on The Studio, visit the library’s website.
