Warren Library Receives $25K Grant for Makerspace

WARREN, Ohio – The Warren-Trumbull County Public Library has received a $25,000 grant from the Trumbull 100 to help fund a new makerspace initiative at the Warren Library.

Through a gift from the Bland family, the Trumbull 100 reached out to Jim Wilkins, executive director of the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library, about helping fund an ongoing community partnership. Wilkins said library staff identified a need for a makerspace.

“We are very happy that the Trumbull 100 has stepped forward to partner with the library for this makerspace initiative,” Wilkins said. “Their support and expertise will ensure that we are providing resources, training and classes to help patrons pursue their career and business goals.”

The makerspace will include photography and sound equipment, a 3-D printer and other technology tools, along with trained library staff to assist and lead classes.

In addition to a dedicated space that will provide hands-on access to equipment, the initiative will feature ongoing classes and presentations for job seekers and entrepreneurs.

“We believe the makerspace will encourage creation, collaboration and innovation in a way that everyone in the community can access,” Wilkins said.

Construction of the makerspace is part of a project that will also include window replacement throughout the building and creation of office space for the library’s new Community Engagement Department.

VendRick Construction of Brookfield is expected to begin the library renovations by the end of April. The project is expected to be completed in early fall. Makerspace classes are tentatively scheduled to begin in January 2024.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.