The Forge
Let’s make things in the Library’s new makerspace!
Create, invent, and learn in our space designed for hands-on creativity.
Spend some time making jewelry, working on a sewing project, or making something cool with our 3D printer. Or just stop in for a few minutes to color a picture or play with some Legos. The Forge is here for you to use and to make your own.
Using the Makerspace
Most of the equipment, resources, and supplies in The Forge can be used whenever The Forge is open. Reserveable equipment requires the user to have a library card or resource card in good standing. Learn more about getting a Library Card.
Makers under the age of 14 must be supervised at all times by a parent or guardian to ensure the responsible use of the facility, unless attending a Library program.
Some of our equipment requires makers to be trained before use. This process is called “badging.” To use our 3D printer, please call 262-532-8920 or email Forge@menomonee-falls.org to contact one of our trainers to verify your eligibility to use our printer.
All users of The Forge should read and understand the Makerspace Policy. If you have any questions, please ask a staff member.
Makerspace Equipment
Reserving Equipment
Make sure the stuff you want to use is available during your visit to The Forge. Several items in The Forge can be reserved.
Reserveable equipment requires the user to have a library card or resource card in good standing. Learn more about getting a Library Card.
Donations
We are grateful for all donations. Please consider donating something from our Wish List. Monetary donations are also welcome. Please make checks payable to Menomonee Falls Public Library.
Wish List
Our makerspace is free for anyone to use, and that is possible only because of your generosity! We’re always in need of supplies. If you’d like to contribute, please take a look at our Wish List.
Supply Costs
Supplies for your first project are always free. We need your help to keep it that way and appreciate your donation for additional projects.
Cricut
- 12”x12” Vinyl: $0.50
- 12”x12” Specialty Vinyl (Iron-on, holographic, glitter, et cetera): $1.00
- 12”x12” Transfer Tape: $2
Button Maker
- 2.25” button: $0.10
- 2.25” magnet: $0.50
3D Printer
Filament $0.10 per gram (includes rafts/brims/support & failed prints due to design error)
Paper
- 12”x12” Cardstock: $0.25
- 8.5”x11” Cardstock: $0.10
Laminating Sleeve
- 8.5”x11” Laminating Sleeve: $0.25
Donors
The following donors, along with several unnamed donors who brought in boxes and boxes of supplies, helped make The Forge possible. We can’t thank them enough! These and future donors will be acknowledged on our forthcoming Gratitude Wall inside The Forge.
- Ian, Elaine, and Charley Dickmann
- Community League
- Greater Menomonee Falls Foundation
- Annie Jurczyk
- Joanne Lesing
- Andrew and Emily Lukasek
- MagnaTiles
- Menomonee Falls Optimist Club
- Steve Taggart
- Karen Raschke
- Menomonee Falls Library Friends
- LC and Mary Carl
- A. Novak
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Forge?
The Forge is a makerspace.
Well that was helpful. What is a makerspace?
A makerspace is a collaborative workspace where people can create, invent and learn using a variety of tools and gadgets ranging from high-tech to no-tech.
Who can use this makerspace?
Anyone can use The Forge as long as they follow the rules. Makers age 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times, unless attending a supervised program.
Reserveable equipment requires the user to have a library card or resource card in good standing. Learn more about getting a Library Card.
When is the makerspace open?
The Forge is usually open during normal Library hours, but closes 30 minutes before the Library closes.
So I can just come in whenever and use the 3D Printer?
Some equipment, like the 3D printer, requires you to be trained before use. This process is called badging. After you've been badged on a particular item, you can use that item whenever that it is available. Reservations are required for some equipment.
How do I reserve equipment?
Call 262-532-8920 or make your reservation online.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge for using our equipment, and supplies for your first project are free! After that, we ask that you make a donation for any supplies that you use. A suggested price list can be found in The Forge.
Are you looking for volunteers to help teach classes?
Yes! Once we begin offering classes for the community, we’d like to offer a wide variety of arts and crafts tutorials. If you are interested in sharing your talents with the community please call Mara at 262-532-8934 to be added to our list of volunteers.
Contact Us
If you have an questions about The Forge, please contact us using the form below.