IdeaSpace: Making + Media
The Central Rappahannock Regional Library(CRRL) received funding from the Economic Development Authority on December 5th for their new IdeaSpace where customers will be able to “Explore and develop their creativity.”
What Is IdeaSpace?
IdeaSpace is a “Technology Library” where you will be able to borrow technology to pursue your creative endeavors.
This creative space will contain a Digital Media Lab specifically for audio/visual recording.
Technology Involved
Some of the technology customers will be able to borrow include:
- GoPros
- Zoom Audio Recorders
- 360 Video Cameras
- Ring Lights
- Novation Launchpads
- Drawing Tablets
- DJ Turntables
- 4k Cameras
Technology only available at IdeaSpace:
- Glowforge Laser Cutter
- Ultimaker s5 3D Printer
- Drawing Tablet Stations
- Video and Recording Studio
- Sewing Machines
- Serger
IdeaSpace is a part of Fredericksburg Canal Quarter, which is a community of people who have joined together to better our community.
Library staff will be providing access to training for free to the community.
Hundreds of library customers have already earned certifications to allow them to use the technology independently.
Where Is IdeaSpace Located?
CRRL’s IdeaSpace will be located at 1616 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401.
When Will IdeaSpace Open?
IdeaSpace will be opening to the public near the latter half of winter 2020.
It will be open for a total of 30-35 hours weekly, including weekday evenings and weekends.
Pepper The Robot
Pepper, Central Rappahannock Library’s robot “will be housed primarily at IdeaSpace” says Craig Graziano, head of Youth Services, while occasionally taking field trips to various library branches from time to time.
How IdeaSpace Will Effect Our Community
CRRL’s IdeaSpace will dramatically effect our community in ways you would’ve never seen before.
This gives anyone, especially kids in our community access to try something new, experiment with creativity, and innovate our future.
The industry of technology used to have a barrier of entry consisting of hundreds to thousands of dollars, IdeaSpace just removed that barrier.
Scenario A:
Jimmy wants to be a Freelance Photographer, but cannot afford the equipment to succeed. Jimmy goes to IdeaSpace and borrows a camera, walks around downtown and practices, portraits, landscapes, and products, creating a portfolio.
Now Jimmy has developed a skillset and is charging potential customers for Senior Photos, Weddings, Profile Pictures(LinkedIn), etc.
Scenario B:
Abby wants to be a YouTuber, but doesn’t own a camera for recording, professional lighting, microphone or editing software. Abby finds out about IdeaSpace and begins her creative journey.
She works hard, creates amazing videos using the Digital Media Lab of IdeaSpace and gains a following. Soon after, a brand contacts her for a deal to monetize her content.
Finally, Abby has achieved her goal of being a YouTuber due to IdeaSpace.
Those are just 2 quick examples of what this creative space can do for our community.
Education
Providing the amount of value that IdeaSpace is would be tough to replicate in school systems.
Having multiple school locations to fulfill would disproportionately raise the budget.
Bearing the question of, “Would an environment like IdeaSpace be located at the Career and Technical Center?”
Renovations
The renovations for IdeaSpace are already happening. Meeting their anticipated opening season is likely to happen.
To keep up with the renovations, follow Fredericksburg Canal Quarter and the Central Rappahannock Regional library on Facebook.
