The Oakmont Carnegie Library (“OCL”) Makerspace is a shared creative environment designed for learning, collaboration, and hands-on making. All Makerspace users are expected to act safely, respectfully, and responsibly while using the space, tools, and equipment.
General Use
- The Makerspace may only be used when authorized library staff are present.
- All users must sign in each day before using the Makerspace.
- Staff must approve all projects based on available time, materials, equipment, and appropriateness for the library environment.
- Equipment and tools are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved for library programming or appointments.
- Food and drinks are not permitted in the Makerspace.
Age Requirements
- Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
- Parents and guardians are encouraged to supervise children of all ages due to the presence of sharp, hot, or potentially dangerous tools.
Certification of Special Equipment
- An Allegheny County library card is required for Makers using equipment that requires certification training.
- Certification is required before using designated equipment, including:
- 3D Printers
- Cricut Maker
- Sewing and Embroidery Machine
- Music Station
- Any future equipment identified by staff as requiring training
- Certification training must be scheduled with library staff and completed in person.
Safety Rules
All Makers are expected to:
- Use tools and equipment safely and appropriately.
- Stay focused and avoid distracting others while equipment is in use.
- Keep hands, hair, jewelry, and loose clothing away from moving parts or blades.
- Wear appropriate attire, including closed-toe shoes.
- Tie back long hair and avoid dangling jewelry.
- Use safety equipment when required.
- Keep work areas clean and free of clutter.
- Allow hot items to cool before handling or storing.
- Return all tools and materials to their proper locations after use.
- Notify staff immediately if equipment is damaged, unsafe, or malfunctioning.
- Report all accidents or injuries to library staff immediately.
By using tools or equipment that do not require certification, users acknowledge that they are capable of using those tools safely.
Materials & Responsibility
- Library consumable materials are limited and should not be wasted.
- Users are responsible for cleaning their workspace after use.
- Users may be responsible for the cost of damaged, lost, or improperly used equipment or materials beyond normal wear and tear.
- OCL is not responsible for damage to personal materials, media, or projects created in the Makerspace.
Acceptable Use
Makerspace equipment may only be used for lawful purposes. Users may not create materials that are:
- Illegal or prohibited by local, state, or federal law
- Unsafe, harmful, or dangerous
- Obscene or inappropriate for a public library setting
- In violation of copyright, trademark, patent, or other intellectual property laws
The library reserves the right to deny or discontinue use of the Makerspace or equipment at staff discretion.
Liability
Use of the Makerspace and its equipment is at the user’s own risk. By signing in, users acknowledge and accept responsibility for following all Makerspace rules and safety procedures.
Enforcement of Policy
Failure to follow Makerspace policies, including expectations related to safety, cleanliness, proper use of equipment, respectful behavior, staff direction, or care of library tools and materials, may result in immediate suspension or loss of Makerspace privileges. Oakmont Carnegie Library staff reserve the right to deny access to or remove any individual from the Makerspace at their discretion if these rules are not followed.
Approved: 06/10/2026
Note* This policy updates and replaces the previous Makerspace Agreement Form, Policies and Safety Guidelines.