The Arlington Heights Memorial Library is considering the acquisition of a building to use as a library makerspace. There will be two public meetings about the project that will be held on Saturday, March 16, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Both meetings will be held in the library’s Hendrickson Room. Library officials will present more information on the proposed space including a preliminary budget, updates on parking and initial plans for hours of operation and services offered. The public is invited to attend to learn more and offer feedback.

The property at 112 N. Belmont Avenue was the first standalone library in Arlington Heights and is currently owned by the Village of Arlington Heights. The library proposes acquiring and re-using the 8,000-square foot building as a makerspace. Once renovated, the new facility would offer opportunities for hands-on experiential STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) learning, with necessary supplies and equipment. The proposed makerspace plans include 3D printers, laser cutters, quilting and sewing machines and a commercial kitchen – tools that residents and entrepreneurs may not have access to.

At a public meeting on Wednesday, February 6, officials from the Village of Arlington Heights and the Arlington Heights Memorial Library shared preliminary information about the proposed project. About 80 residents attended the informational meeting at Village Hall where they had the opportunity to ask questions and share feedback about the proposal.

On Saturday, March 16, please note: Additional library parking is available across the street from the library in the commuter lot on Vail Avenue. After noon on weekdays, and all day Saturday and Sunday, the Vail commuter lot is free. The commuter lot is located on Vail Avenue between St. James and Fremont. Enter from Vail Avenue or St. James.