** For the most up to date information on the Mono County Libraries Makerspace, please visit our Instagram and sign up or view our monthly Makerspace E-Newsletter.
The Mono County Library System’s dedicated Makerspace is located on the 2nd floor of the Mammoth Lakes Library. It strives to provide an inclusive, hands-on learning environment for community members of all ages - it’s a safe place for engaging in a variety of creative projects. While periodic maker activities happen in library branches countywide, by providing a free, drop-in space at the Mammoth Lakes Library, the Makerspace provides youth, families and adults with opportunities for collaboration, innovation, independence and self-empowerment in a purpose-designed, supportive space.
The Makerspace cultivates social and emotional skills that translate beyond the physical space to improving themselves, their peers, and the Mammoth Lakes community.
Innovation: Makerspace encourages and develops creative thinking and personal expression to begin unique projects, and tinkering and problem-solving to improve on them when needed.
Independence: Makerspace participants learn to work through their original projects autonomously and seek help when needed, using correct terminology to describe where and how they need assistance.
Collaboration: The Makerspace encourages different age levels to work together and mentor each other on a variety of skills sets. Makerspace participants practice teamwork, nonviolent communication, and problem solving.
Self-Empowerment: Makerspace empowers participants, who work thoroughly their projects with diligence and perseverance, and feel accomplished when finished.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is the Makerspace Located?
The Makerspace is located on the second story of the Mammoth Lakes Library (400 Sierra Park Road).
When are you open?
Makerspace is back in-person at a limited capacity.
Summer 2022 Drop-In Hours at Mammoth Lakes Library:
Tuesday and Wednesday 2:15 - 5p
2nd and 4th Saturdays of the Month 11a - 2p
Thursdays **Adults Only Makerspace**: 11a - 2p
Participation waiver is required (either fill out at Makerspace or download/print/fill out at home below!). 3rd Grade and under require an actively participating chaperone. Due to the nature of tools & activities in the Makerspace, children must be at least Kindergarten age (5/6 yrs) or older to participate even with the required chaperone. Thank you for helping us keep this a safe space for everyone.
Other branches provide an amazing array of Makerspace activities and kits throughout the year - check in with your local library branch for more information.
What kind of activities and projects do you have?
The Makerspace has a variety of materials and tools. Some popular activities include: sewing, embroidery, drawing, origami, recycled material construction, felting, mask-making, and jewelry making. We also offer occasional “Messy Day” activities, including paper mache, painting, slime making, and clay. Please check our Instagram, FB, or this webpage for latest updates on Messy Day offerings and special workshops.
Who can come to the Makerspace? Do I need to have a library card to participate?
Anyone 3rd grade and older is welcome to participate with a signed participation waiver. Kids kindergarten age - 3rd grade may participate with an actively participating adult chaperone. Due to the nature of tools and activities in the space, children younger than Kindergarten age are not allowed, even with a chaperone.
You do not need a library card to participate, or be a Mono County resident! Visitors are welcome.
Are there any Maker opportunities if I can't come in during the drop-in hours?
Yes!
Come check out our Makerspace Book Collection and Check-Out Kits on the 2nd Floor of the Mammoth Lakes Library. Check-out Kits cover a variety of skills and supplies, such as learning to crochet or watercolor technique. Both Maker books and Check-Out Kits can be placed on hold and transferred to another branch.
We also offer free Maker Kits To-Go and Nature Explorer Activity Zines as supplies last! These are available at all circulation desks in the county and are great take-home activities if you don't have a library card.
Do you accept donations?
We do accept donations of lightly used art supplies. Current most wanted items: clean corks, fleece/flannel fabric, wooden clothespins, marbles, ping pong balls, legos, costume jewelry, recyclables, and good quality art supplies (acrylic paint, canvas, markers, etc.). Please see the attached document for more ideas.
Does the Makerspace need volunteers?
Please click here to find our volunteer application, fill it out and bring into the Mammoth Lakes Library and we will contact you about opportunities.
What is the best way to get in contact with the Makerspace?
Send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or directly to the MakerSpace coordinator, Lori Michelon, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call the library at 760.934.4777.
Do other Mono County library branches offer Makerspace activities?
While the Mammoth Lakes MakerSpace has an established physical MakerSpace, other branches offer Maker activities. Please contact the specific branch to inquire (select the individual library tabs on the Mono County Library website, under “branches”).
NEW! MakerSpace Circulating Book Collection!:
Located on the 2nd floor of the Mammoth Lakes Library, the MakerSpace has a new dedicated book collection reflecting a variety of activities for all ages available for checkout! 
MakerSpace Documents:
MakerSpace Waiver - English (2022)
Formulario de Autorización- Actividades del Espacio Maker (2022)
List of Supplies That Can Be Donated - Updated June 2017
