The Mountain Lakes Public Library Makerspace has grown with the Mountain Lakes Public Library since December 2016.Our motto is "small in scale, large in reach". We work with students ages 2 - 102 on diverse range of projects inluding robotics, cardboard construction, vector graphics, circuitry, digital animation, green screen film making, computer science, 3d design & printing, and universal design. Creativity, just like a sport or musical instrument has to be practiced to improve. The Makerspace provides unique and diverse opportunities for people to explore high and low technologies, how to connect seemingly incompatible resources, genuine ways to experience empathy in design, and practice creativity.
The Makerspace works closely with the Mountain Lakes Public Library to include literacy connections with all of our projects. All Makerspace projects focus on universal design. Our accessible design program focuses on developing functional, engaging, and accessible resources. We work with a diverse group of partners to provide students with real world experience to develop their accessible resources. Our partners include Build a Better Book, University of Colorado, St. Joseph's School for the Blind, Sound Start Babies, See3d.org, and many accessibility professionals like Leslie Edmonds and Neal Mckenzie from the Sonoma County School District.
Ian Matty is the Director of the Mountain Lakes Public Library Makerspace. Ian has spoken at numerous conferences and webinars about makerspaces and creativity. Additionally, Ian has earned an NCWIT educator award. Ian's favorite ice cream is mint chocolate chip, coffee, oreo cream, and Denville flood mud.
Christina Kelly leads the Makerspace's programming and strategic development. Christina focuses on building community through diverse and equitable library events.
Richard He is the ML Makerspace lead accessible resource desinger. Richard is a mechanical engineer with a degree from Stevens Institute of Technology. Richard's focus on process has created innovative ways to improve braille awareness with 3d design. Richard's favorite mode of transportation is e-scooter.
Jennifer Lynch is the Mountain Lakes Public Library Director. Jennifer has the led the Library's growth since late 2017.