Innovation Lab
Available by Appointment Mondays 1200-1800 Wednesdays 0900-1500 Fridays 0900-1500
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This section covers: Policy, Dress Code, Computer Use, Equipment Use, Safety and Responsibility, and Lawful Use.
POLICY
The Bateman Library is a hub for free access to information and technology, social and civic engagement, and support of personal enrichment, well-being, and lifelong learning. In support of this mission, the Library provides tools and activities that let library patrons learn about and use a wide variety of equipment and tools for educational, professional, and personal projects. Tools and equipment in the Innovation Lab are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no charge to use the tools or materials. Makers are also welcome to bring in their own materials, pending staff approval. First time users of certain tools must attend scheduled training(s) in how to use the equipment. After that, instruction will be available on an as-needed basis depending on staff availability. This includes, but may not be limited to:
3D printer
CNC
Laser Cutter/Printer
Fiber Laser
DRESS CODE
There are two important dress code requirements for the Innovation Lab:
Everyone using the Innovation Lab must wear closed toed shoes.
Users may not wear loose fitting clothing when using the equipment.
COMPUTER USE
The Innovation Lab computers are for creative projects only. Behavior in the Innovation Lab must be consistent with the Library’s Behavior Policy. Internet and equipment usage must be consistent with the Computer Use and Access Policy. The Library assumes no responsibility for projects that are defective, destroyed, do not function as expected, or are left behind by makers. The Library also reserves the right to stop the creation of any items that are not consistent with library policies.
RULES OF USE
Patrons must have an active Library Card in order to use any of the Innovation Lab equipment. Exceptions may be granted for programs led by library staff, at the discretion of the Library Director or his/her assignee.
Patrons must sign a Library Innovation Lab Use and Release Agreement before using any equipment.
Patrons must complete the required training for any piece of equipment before using or reserving the equipment. Training requirements are unique to each piece of equipment.
Patrons must be at least 18 years old to use the equipment.
SAFETY AND RESPONSIBILITY
Patrons using the Innovation Lab agree to use the equipment in a safe way, and only after receiving the required training. Patrons must report accidents and/or equipment damage immediately.
Patrons will immediately discontinue use of any equipment that becomes unsafe or in a state of disrepair.
Following use, all equipment should be in the same condition as it was when the patron began using it. Normal wear and tear is expected. However, patrons agree to pay for the loss of or damage to any items that are lost or damaged due to misuse of the equipment. The cost for the loss or damage will be based on actual costs for repair or replacement, including any parts and labor.
Patrons acknowledge the inherent risks in the use of the Innovation Lab equipment and that their voluntary participation in using such equipment may result in injury or damage to themselves or their personal property.
Patrons fully assume these risks and release Bateman Library from any liability.
LAWFUL USE
The Library’s equipment may be used for lawful purposes only. Patrons will not be permitted to use any equipment to create material that is:
Prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer.) This includes weapons of any kind.
Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment.
In violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.
The Library reserves the right to refuse any Innovation Lab request.
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Whether new to the equipment or a skilled user, there’s a place for you in the Innovation Lab! Our knowledgeable staff and volunteers will guide you through the process to get started.
Reserve an appointment time and equipment through our online appointment request form here. Library staff will respond within 2 business days.
Reservations may be for a maximum of 2 hours at a time. Extensions on reservation times will be allowed if there are no other scheduled reservations at that time.
Patrons must check in online appointment request format the Service Desk when they arrive for their reservation.
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Ensure you have an active Bateman Library card in good standing.
Wear closed toe shoes and no loose fitting clothing/accessories.
Bring approved materials (select equipment below for list). Supplies are not provided by the Library.
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Fill out Innovation Lab Waiver at the Service Desk.
Receive your official Safety Badge to be worn at all times within the Lab.
Note: During your first visit, staff will provide a safety briefing and assign your Safety Badge level.
WHAT IS A SAFETY BADGE?
The Innovation Lab uses physical safety badges to keep track of the equipment you’ve been trained on and to the extent you’ve been trained on each piece. Safety badges also serve as a reminder for safe use of the equipment based on three different colored stickers: red, yellow, and green.
Red level
The Red sticker indicates that you are being trained on a certain piece of equipment and may need some help with the equipment. In order to move up from red, you’ll need to demonstrate knowledge of the use of the equipment.
Yellow level
The yellow sticker indicates that you have been trained on a piece of equipment, but others need to be in the space with you while using it. For certain equipment, yellow is the maximum level due to safety hazards for solo use of that equipment.
Green level
The green sticker indicates that you have been permitted to use a piece of equipment by yourself in the Innovation Lab, with or without other people in the space.
Staff/Official Volunteer Badges
Everyone has a safety badge, including the Innovation Lab staff. Staff safety badges have blue stickers instead of yellow, orange or red stickers. The blue stickers indicate that the staff member has been trained on the safe use of a piece of equipment and is able to help you with it. Interested in becoming an Official Volunteer? Fill out the form here.
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Official Innovation Lab Volunteers assist Library Staff during Lab operation hours. Volunteers will be trained in the basics of safely operating the equipment and assisting Red and Yellow level badges.
Volunteers are expected to be consistent, on time, and value safety.
Interested? Click here to fill out the Volunteer Form today!
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Want to learn more about our Innovation Lab equipment and software? Click on the underlined topic below and select “join class” for additional educational content.