Creation Space Guidelines
The Creation Space is available to all La Crosse Library users and staff. Children under 16 should have a responsible caregiver when using potentially dangerous or fragile equipment including an iron, tablets/computers, the heat press, desktop cutting tools, and sewing machines.
All users must:
- Be courteous to library staff and other Creation Space users.
- Provide their own external storage devices and/or media. All images, videos, recordings, and projects will be removed from the Creation Space equipment after use. LPL (La Crosse Public Library) is not responsible for files (digital or print) left behind.
- Avoid wasting consumable supplies and materials.
- Keep Creation Space supplies and materials in the Creation Space.
- Take precautions to avoid causing unnecessary mess or damage in the Creation Space.
- Clean up their workspace in the Creation Space following use. The Maker agrees to inform a staff member in the event that they are unable to return a work surface, tool or equipment to its original state.
- Willful misuse of the equipment will result in loss of use privileges.
- Machines may be unavailable during programs.
- Only LPL computers may be connected to LPL machines, unless specifically noted otherwise.
- There is no guarantee of quiet in the Creation Space.
Hours of Operation
The Creation Space hours align with La Crosse Library hours. Hours may be subject to change for holidays or staffing reasons. Hours will be posted in the Creation Space and on the La Crosse Library website. All projects must be completed during standard hours of operation unless otherwise arranged with staff.
Requests to use the space outside of regular hours may be made by current partners and should be made by email to info@lacrosselibrary.org at least three business days prior to the meeting or event in question. All requests are filtered through the Public Experiences team on a first come first serve basis with respect to open hours and program schedules.
All reservations are to be tracked on appropriate calendars for spaces to allow for assessment and tracking purposes.
Usage Limitations
Patrons may only use one machine at a time and may be required to sign up in advance in cases of high demand. If machines are available, staff may approve the use of multiple machines at one time, on a case-by-case basis and at the discretion of staff.
Patrons may not utilize the Creation Space for any type of commercial use. Selling of items created with materials available in the space is not permitted (except in a limited, small capacity).
Free Material Limits
Free materials are a courtesy provided by La Crosse Public Library. We cannot guarantee the availability of any materials at any time. You may bring your own supplies. Creation Space staff will be available to approve any outside materials brought into the space. You may contact info@lacrosselibrary.org for an approved outside materials list or to inquire about donating materials.
Open Lab Hours
Walk-in use of equipment in the Creation Space is on a first-come, first-served basis. Limited staff assistance will be available during Open Hours. For more in-depth assistance or to be trained on a particular machine, users may schedule an appointment with a staff member.
Safety Guidelines
General Lab Safety
Secure all scarves, neckties, loose-fitting clothing, or jewelry when using machinery in the Creation Space. These items can be caught in the equipment and cause injury.
Keep hands and arms away from machinery during operation.
Never use a broken tool or machine. If you notice a tool or machine is broken, inform a staff member right away.
Keep the floor clear of clutter, wires, and/or trip hazards.
If you are unsure about how to safely operate machines or equipment, ask a staff member.
Safety goggles, gloves, and masks are all available for your use. It is your responsibility to use the proper safety equipment for your project. Not sure what to use? Just ask!
Machine-Specific Safety Considerations
Please refer to the Safety Manual for each machine for more detailed safety guidelines. Click the name of the machine for full manuals.
3D Pens, Heat Press, Iron, & Hot Glue Guns
"Hot tools" have hot parts that may burn your skin. Do not touch the extruder head or heated element after turning on the machine/device.
Sewing Machines
Power the sewing machines off before changing needles, replacing bobbin, or any tasks that require your hands to be near the sewing area.
Never sew over pins or buttons.
Always pay attention and keep hands clear of the feeder while sewing.
Heat Press
The heat press has hot parts that can burn your skin. Do not touch the top part of the press when placing items on the bed for pressing.
Do not leave the heat press unattended during use.
Signature Area
I have read both the Creation Space Guidelines and Safety Guidelines thoroughly and fully understand and enter into them on behalf of myself, my heirs, next of kin, assigns, and personal representatives. No one has made to me any representations, statements, or inducements that change or modify anything written in this agreement.