Calling all creatives, the Dallas Public Library central branch is now featuring three rooms dedicated to providing free access to unique equipment and technology for use in storytelling, fiber arts, and digital preservation.
The Dallas Public Library central branch has been debating for some time on how to best use their available space. Finally deciding on turning the third floor into place for creators. Creative Spaces was the collective name chosen. Neighboring Fort Worth, Arlington, and Frisco have similar workrooms, so it only made sense for Dallas to follow the wave of the “maker movement.”
On the third floor, you will find the Story Center equipped with essential tools for completing your next masterpiece. You will find podcasting studios, video editing bays and writing equipment. For those still in love with analog, typewriters are available. It’s worth mentioning users will have access to the entire Adobe Creative Suite. The suite includes Photoshop and Illustrator, Premiere for video editing, Audition for audio, InDesign for document design and full access to the rest Adobe offers. Considering the $52.99 monthly price tag for the full Adobe suite, this is one of the best deals in Dallas.
The Fiber Arts Workroom is where you can make your own clothes with free, but limited amounts of fabric. Vintage and contemporary patterns are available for men and women. Additionally, there are many new sewing machines for users. If you would rather knit the old fashion way, then there is yarn for your latest hat or scarf.
The Heritage Lab includes tools to make copies of irreplaceable photos, books, home movies, documents, slides, and audio cassettes. If you want something preserved, the Heritage Lab makes it possible with its state-of-the-art scanning and recording equipment. Bring in your photographs, negatives, slides, VHS, audio cassettes, camcorders, and even floppy disks so you can protect your cherished memories.
How does it work? For one, you need a Dallas Public Library card. You will need to watch a short orientation video then you can schedule your two-hour block of time either in person or by email.
If you are feeling creative or needing the tools to digitize your memories, then plan a trip to the library. Remember, the library also has weekend hours, so if you’re looking for things to do in Dallas on the weekend, definitely check out these new Creative Spaces!
The Creative Spaces workrooms are available at J. Erik Jonsson Central Library located at 1515 Young St, Dallas, TX 75201. For more information call 214-670-1400 or visit the library website.
