Have you heard about our iLABS? Do you know what a makerspace is? An iLAB is a place for people to come and create, make, tinker, try, develop, share resources and knowledge, and to collaborate. It’s an informal learning space where ideas can become reality, innovation happens, and the entrepreneurial spirits soar.
Come Explore the iLab!
Located downstairs next to the Computer Lab, you will find iLABS for all ages—a 3-D printer, new computers with amazing software and kits for people interested in:
- Audio software
- Visual software
- Graphic design
- Photography kit with a green screen
- Sewing machine
- Knitting
- Calligraphy
- Crafting kits
- and more!
iLAB Open Hours
Open during regular library hours.
Before You Use the iLAB
Please fill out the agreement form below. Hudson Area Public Library iLab Use Agreement
Items available for use:
- iMacs
Additional Software Installed on iMacs
Moho Debut 12 (iMac #1)
The fun, quick and affordable way to create animations, Moho® is the ideal solution for first-time animators, hobbyists, and digital artists. A Beginner’s Mode and Character Wizard allow you to design your own ready-to-animate characters in minutes.Clip Studio Paint (iMac #1)
The world’s leading comic and manga creation software and delivers powerful art tools for every manga and comic artist.MotionArtist (iMac #1)
Transform comics into moving interactive presentations! Bring your comics to life with animated panels, text and word balloons.Home Designer Software 2017 (iMac #2)
- Software for home design, remodeling, interior design, kitchens and baths, decks and landscaping, and cost estimation.
- Take a virtual tour and use 3D views to know exactly what your project will look like before you build.
- Design in 2D and 3D or both simultaneously; built-in style templates; 6,000+ library items.
- Flashforge Finder 3D Printer
Use Guidelines & Procedures
Purpose of 3D Printer
The Hudson Area Library Foundation generously provided a grant for the creation of the Hudson Area Public Library iLab, which included the purchase of a 3D Printer to highlight the use of technology in the library and offer innovative creation opportunities for the public to engage and create.What is 3D printing?
3D printing builds physical objects from digital models. Digital models are created using Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs. 3D printers read the digital model file and extrude thin layers of plastic filament to build the objects. Users may create their own digital models or use predesigned models.Who can request to print?
Anyone with a Hudson Area Public Library card and a signed waiver on file! Ages 17 and younger must have a waiver on file that has been signed by a parent or guardian.Cost of printing?
There is a charge of $.50 per hour for printing on the 3D printer, with a 4-hour maximum print time. Time is rounded to the next hour, for example, a 1.5-hour print job would cost $1.00. Minimum charge of $.50. Projects must be paid for upon pickup. Charges for items not picked up will be applied to patron’s library account.Guidelines for Use
- Use of the 3D printers is subject to the Hudson Area Joint Library Technology Use Policy, the Hudson Area Joint Library’s Code of Conduct, and local, state, and federal laws. The 3D printer may not be used to violate the intellectual property rights of another and is subject to copyright laws.
- The Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
- Patrons will not be charged for prints that are defective due to printer problems; however, this does not include design defects.
- 3D prints that are not picked up and paid for within 7 days become the property of the Library. Additionally, all print charges will be added to the patron’s library account.
- Library staff supervise the 3D print job and manage the queue. Staff determines the order of print jobs when there is a queue.
- Only Library filament can be used in the 3D printer and choice of color is subject to the material available.
- Printed objects may be photographed for promotional use by the Library.
Design & Printing Procedure
Make your own 3D object file using Tinkercad or any other CAD programs. You will need a basic understanding of Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD). Visit www.tinkercad.com for brief tutorials to learn how to use Tinkercad, or explore other free resources. Create and save your 3D object.3D model designs must be saved as a G or GX file to a USB flash drive. Contact the Library at 715-386-3101 to schedule your print job and bring the flash drive to the Hudson Area Public Library for printing. Additionally, you may send your print request and files to hudsonpl@hudsonpubliclibrary.org.
Predesigned 3D object files are available to download from websites such as:
When can I print?
Printing is available during regular business hours; however, no prints will begin later than 5:30 p.m. Advanced reservations are encouraged and can be made by phone or in-person. You will be contacted when your print job is complete.- Monday – Thursday: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Friday: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Saturday: 10:30 am – 1:00pm
Project Pick-Up
Once you have been notified that your project is ready, you may pick it up at the main circulation desk anytime during open hours. Projects must be picked up within 7 days of completion. Any charges associated with projects that are not picked up will be applied to your library account.The Hudson Area Public Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
The Hudson Area Public Library is not responsible for any damage, loss, or security of data arising from the use of its computers or network, nor for the functionality or quality of content produced on the 3D printers.
- iPads
- iPads are located in the iLab for public use. Please note: The iLabs located in the Teen Area have been purchased with a grant from the Hudson Hospital Foundation with the intent of promoting health literacy for young adults; therefore, these iPads are for young adults (grades 5 – 12), adults may be asked to stop using these iPads if needed.
- You may not add additional apps, nor alter the iPads in any way. Suggestions for additional apps are welcome.
- The iPads may be unavailable for use when the iLab is being used for library-sponsored programming.
- Please notify the circulation desk staff immediately of any problems, damage, or other issues.
- iPad use is subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct and Technology Use Policy.
- Drawing Tablet
The Wacom Drawing Tablet is available for in-library use only. The tablet must be checked out on your library card. The tablet may be used with your personal laptop or in the iLab with one of the iMacs or PCs.
- Use is subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct and Technology Use Policy.
- Equipment must be checked out on your library card and returned for check-in. Equipment not returned is subject to charges for replacement of the equipment.
- The Library is not responsible for any loss of work created; it is the user’s responsibility to save all work.
- Brother Computerized Sewing Machine
- Please contact the library to schedule use of the sewing machine.
- Use of the sewing machine is for personal use only.
- The sewing machine is for in-library use only and will be checked out on the user’s card. The library has small meeting rooms available for reservation and use of the sewing machine.
- The sewing machine may be reserved for up to 4 hours per day.
- The Library does not provide materials for use with the sewing machine. Please plan to bring your own bobbin, threads, tools, and materials.
- You may reserve the sewing machine for up to 3 days per week, if available.
- Photography Kit
The photography kit is available for in-library use; however, special requests will be considered by the Library Director.
- The kit contains a green screen, lightboxes, and other tools for a photoshoot.
- You may use your own camera or borrow one at the circulation desk. The camera must be checked out on your library card, as well as the photography kit, and is for in-library use only. Equipment not returned will be billed for replacement cost.
- Use of the photography equipment is subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct and Technology Use Policy.
- Before returning the Library’s camera, please be sure to save your photographs to a flash drive or other device. All photos will be deleted upon return of equipment. The Library is not responsible for any loss of photos.
- Cricut Explore Air 2
- The Cricut Explore Air 2 machine is available for use upon request by any Hudson Area Public Library cardholder. Please contact the circulation desk to check out the Cricut for in-library use only. You may reserve a small meeting room for use, if more space is needed, or use in the iLab.
- Users must have a signed iLab use waiver on file to check out the Cricut.
- The Library does not provide supplies for personal use. Please plan to bring your own project materials.
- Podcast Recording Equipment
The Hudson Area Public Library has a Snowball microphone and an iPad loaded with apps for creating your very own podcast or other video recordings. This equipment is for in-library use only and can be checked out for two hours. The equipment is available for checkout at the circulation desk, on a first come, first served basis. You can reserve a small conference room at the upstairs information desk.
- Use of the Snowball mic and the iPad are subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct and Technology Use Policy.
- The mic and iPad must be checked out on your library card and returned for check-in. Equipment not returned for check-in will be billed for the replacement cost.
- Before returning equipment, be sure to save your work. The Library is not responsible for any loss of data.
- Digital Converter
The iLab features a Digital Converter for transferring your personal VHS movies to DVD. The converter is available on a first come, first served basis. This is do-it-yourself equipment and available for you to use. Staff is not available for more than very basic assistance, as available.
- Use is subject to the Library’s Code of Conduct and Technology Use Policy, as well as all local, state, and federal laws, including copyright laws.
- Equipment must be used in the iLab and cannot be removed from the iLab.
- The Library is not responsible for any loss of data or damage caused by the use of this equipment.
- Additional items available
- Computer running Linux Mint
- Open Source Creative Software installed on a Windows 10 computer
- MyPaint: raster graphics editor for digital painters with a focus on painting
- Scribus: designed for layout, typesetting, and preparation of files for professional-quality image-setting equipment. It can also create animated and interactive PDF presentations and forms. Example uses include writing newspapers, brochures, newsletters, posters, and books.
- GIMP: raster graphics editor used for image retouching and editing, free-form drawing, converting between different image formats, and more specialized tasks.
- Inkscape: vector graphics editor used to create or edit vector graphics such as illustrations, diagrams, line arts, charts, logos and complex paintings
- Blender: 3D computer graphics software toolset used for creating animated films, visual effects, art, 3D printed models, interactive 3D applications and video games
- Shotcut: video editor
- OpenShot: video editor
- Audacity: audio editor
- Mixxx: DJ automation and digital DJ performance application
Open iLAB Rules
- When creating digital content with the Library’s equipment, please remember to bring your own storage devices (flash drive) or store your work via an online cloud service. The library’s computers do not store individual work or projects. The Hudson Area Joint Library is not responsible for lost data.
- When the space is open, there is a first come, first serve policy when it comes to utilizing tools and equipment. Your time may be limited to 2 hours, during busy periods.
- Equipment is not to be altered.
- The iLab may be closed for public use during Library-sponsored programs and events.
- No food is allowed in the iLab. Drinks with secured lids are allowed.
- Library equipment cannot be removed from the iLab without permission.
- Library equipment should be used in a manner consistent with the proper use of each device. Equipment should not be mishandled or used in a way that can cause damage. Staff reserve the right to end the use of equipment if deemed necessary.
If you would like to share your time and talents by offering a technology class, please contact the Library at 715-386-3101. Volunteers are always welcome!