51³Ô¹Ï Library Makerspace logo

The 51³Ô¹Ï Library Makerspace aims to introduce the 51³Ô¹Ï community and other DC locals to the world of material and digital creation by offering an intimate, accessible, and comfortable space for individuals to explore their creativity. With an emphasis on hands-on learning, collaboration, and a philosophy centered on connection and community, we are here to support whatever projects you might have in mind. Welcome to the Makerspace! Now let’s get making.

Using the Makerspace

The Makerspace is located on the Lower Level of the library, right behind the Print Center.

Come visit us:

  • Fall and Spring Semesters: Monday-Thursday 10am to 8pm; Fridays 10am to 6pm
  • Summer and Winter Intersession: by appointment only

Appointments are not required when we are open, but if you would like special assistance with a project or training on a machine, we highly recommend you schedule one.

For faculty interested in bringing their class to the Makerspace, or for student groups and other organizations who would like to collaborate with us, please contact us at libmakerspace@american.edu.

  • Specialized Printing
    • Poster
    • 3D
    • Photo
    • Sticker
  • Sewing including Sewing Machines
  • Button Making
  • 3D Printing
  • CNC Carving
  • Vinyl Cutting
  • Jewelry Making
  • Knitting & Crochet
  • Acrylic & Watercolor Painting
  • Quilling
  • Papercrafting
  • Felting
  • Book Binding
  • Faux Stained Glass
  • Cross Stitch & Embroidery
  • Tools
  • Arts & Crafts

Ìý

All first time visitors to the Makerspace must fill out an before using any of our resources or machines. We also ask that everyone follow these rules when visiting us:

  • Any and all members of the community are welcome in the Makerspace.
  • Pay attention to the makers and projects around you.
  • Reuse and recycle materials where possible.
  • Library approved food and beverages are welcome in the Makerspace.
  • Keep the space neat and tidy.
  • Noise should be kept at a conversational level.
  • Stay safe.
  • Ask staff if you need any help!

Intellectual Property

All projects conceived and created within the Makerspace, with the exception of university funded research projects and projects relating to existing American-owned IP, remain the exclusive intellectual property of the user. 51³Ô¹Ï’s Intellectual Property Policy is linked here.

Prohibited Materials

Crafting, modifying, or working on any form of weapon, including toy or replica versions, is expressly forbidden within the Makerspace.

Odorous materials, chemicals, or other caustic substances cannot be used in the Makerspace.

The Makerspace does not provide access to power tools or other heavy-duty machinery. Please visit our partners at the Design and Build Lab (DaBL) if you need specialized equipment for a project.

Commercial Use

The Makerspace is intended for personal projects, academic work, and prototyping. Using our resources to run a business or for any commercial purposes is not permitted.

Contact

Email Icon libmakerspace@american.edu
Phone Icon 202-885-7160
Location Icon Bender Library, Lower Level

Ìý

library_3d_printer

Printing

Use the links below to learn more about our printing services, costs, and how to submit a file.

Library Curiosity and Innovation Awards Logo.

The Library Curiosity and Innovation Award celebrates the inventive spirit of students who make exceptional use of our university’s library resources to drive their projects.

Learn More