Tech tutorials now open at Kathleen Syme

If you fancy learning a new skill this year, the Makerspace at Kathleen Syme Library and community centre is open for business.

From 3D printing, to sewing, to soldering, the space offers free materials, machinery and tutorials to anyone who’s interested.

Creative technology activator Alex Castro said that tutorials were being offered in the absence of larger community classes.

“If you want to use the Makerspace all you need to do is have a library card, be over 15 years old, and complete a 30-minute safety induction,” Mr Castro said.

“We’re running tutorials instead of our usual community classes due to COVID and the caps on the number of people who can be in the library.”

The Makerspace is focused on technology and creativity and has a range of tools available.

“We have 3D printers, a heat press, rolling cutters, CNC machines, sewing machines, airbrush kits, UNITY servers for video game development and Tinkercad software for 3D modelling,” Mr Castro said.

During the COVID lockdown, the library stopped running community workshops for kids and adults and are currently waiting for the green light to start them back up.

In their absence the library started running classes on YouTube including watercolour painting, collaging and tapestry which are still available to watch.

Mr Castro said that now the library was opening back up the community should feel welcome to try out the Makerspace.

“Most people learn by returning to the space and picking up bits of info as they go but the tutorials can be a great way to pick up a new skill if you’ve never used the machines before,” Mr Castro said.

Kathleen Syme is open from 10am to 6pm most weekdays. •