Millbrae to open new makerspace

“I think for us, it’s really important to create transformative learning experiences,” Millbrae Library Manager Jess Koshi-Lum said. “We’re in a hub of innovation, there’s a lot of technology around us. We want to provide these opportunities to all of our community, especially those who might not have access to these technologies on a daily basis.” 

The Millbrae Library is joining three other San Mateo County libraries with existing makerspaces within the county library system — a master plan, which was originally devised in 2017, Koshi-Lum said. Both San Carlos and Foster City libraries also have makerspaces in the works, according to the San Mateo County Library website. 

Wide-ranging science, engineering and math technology, offered in partnership with the city of Millbrae and the Friends of the Millbrae Library organization, spans from a memory lab — where residents can bring in VHS tapes or other forms of obsolete media to digitally preserve — to a virtual reality cart. 

VR headsets can be used in a variety of ways, including programs like Google Earth that let community members explore neighborhoods throughout the world as well as real-world skills like job preparedness. 

“I think that has a connection to workforce development as well,” Koshi-Lum said. “More and more, we’re seeing VR being deployed in various trainings for job preparedness. To have people have access to it early on lessens the barrier of entry when they go into the field and they have to use this technology.” 

The opening will also feature photography demonstrations as attendees learn how to use available technology like DSLR cameras. Spero robots — a small, wheeled robot that can be paired with a tablet or phone to play games or complete challenges — will also be up for use. 

After Saturday’s opening, community members can check out makerspace offerings during regular library hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 

The makerspace will also offer specific classes as well, which can be accessed on the library’s April calendar. 

“It’s really for everybody. We have a lot of different activities for kids — Maker Mondays have different types of STEM activities available after school. An open sewing session is available every Friday, people can drop by to use our sewing machines,”  Koshi-Lum said. “Really, it’s a creative incubator.” 

Personally, Koshi-Lum is most excited to expand her sewing skills using the makerspace machines, she said. 

“I’m a budding sewer, trying to get better at that when it comes to mending my clothes, sustainability of clothes as well. That’s something I’m excited about, hopefully being able to make my own clothes one day using the library sewing machines,” she said. 

The grand opening of the makerspace will also feature remarks from local leaders, a ribbon cutting and a lion dance performance from Jing Mo Athletic Association.