Maker Studio for the win!

Two things Eloise Smith loves are libraries and fundraising. So, imagine how excited she was when she learned the Maker Studio at IPPL could play a role in helping her raise money for a cause dear to her heart. Eloise, a retired flight attendant and IPPL volunteer, is making 40-60 coasters in the Maker Studio that will be included in gift bags for donors to the Cosley Zoo in Wheaton. She's using the laser cutter to etch animal designs into the coasters. The project came about when Eloise came to the Maker Studio for a separate project. She was making buttons for her class reunion. Eloise mentioned the zoo project to Ann Stovall, the IPPL Head of Technology and Maker Services, and a longtime friend. "We started talking about the buttons and other projects I'm working on," Eloise said. "I wasn't sure how I would complete my project. It was Ann who suggested using the laser cutter for the coasters. She saved my life!" Like many IPPL cardholders who venture into the Maker Studio, Eloise was so taken by the space that she plans to do many more projects and has signed up for several classes. "Thank heavens for the tech-librarians and the Maker Studio."
The laser cutter was donated by the IPPL Foundation & Friends. Donate here (to the donate page) to support learning in the Maker Studio.