September 2023. At The Makers Hub, our commitment to community education, innovation, and sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are thrilled to announce that we have secured a $10,000 grant in general operating support from the Union Pacific Foundation, marking a significant stride towards achieving our mission.
A Glimpse into Our Initiatives: The Compton Tool Library
Our flagship project, the Compton Tool Library (CTL), is a testament to our dedication to building a more empowered and connected Compton community. Scheduled to open its doors in January 2024, the CTL is more than just a library—it’s a vibrant hub of creativity, knowledge sharing, and sustainability.
One of the many highlights of CTL is the series of workshops we’ll be hosting. These workshops are designed to provide resources and education to the community. With local instructors and affordable prices, we are working to equip Compton residents with the tools and information they need to make a difference in their communities.
At the heart of CTL will lie a treasure trove of tools and machines, ready to fuel your creativity. Community members will be able to borrow tools and use the machines to complete home projects, build their businesses and everything in between. Resources that could otherwise cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars will be available for a fraction of the cost at the Compton Tool Library.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the remarkable machines that will be available to the community and CTL members:
Color Printer: Our high-quality color printer will be a game-changer for the community. Currently, there is no place for residents to print affordably in or around the city of Compton. With the capacity to print up to 13 x 19 inches and scan up to 11 x 17 inches, our printer will be ideal for a wide range of printing needs. Moreover, the fees to print will be lower than any location in the area with the first six pages being completely free!
Sublimation Printer: This versatile printer can be converted into a sublimation printer, opening up endless possibilities for personalized apparel, custom gifts, and more. It’s a cost-effective alternative to commercial sublimation printers and is perfect for small businesses in Compton and surrounding areas. Plus, it can print on polyester fiber, CDs, DVDs, and specialty media up to 1.3mm thick! Whether residents are looking to customize their holiday gifts or add branding to their products, all will be possible at the CTL.
Multifunction Heat Press Transfer Machine: For easy sublimation printing, a heat press is essential. This machine maintains consistent temperatures for easy transfers, with a 15×15-inch heat plate suitable for t-shirts, hats, ceramic plates, and mugs of various sizes. Our heat press will make a huge difference in the community for crafters and entrepreneurs alike!
Laser Cutter & Engraver: Our laser cutting and engraving machine is a game-changer for makers and creators. It features integrated Air Assist technology, prolonging the machine’s life. It’s equipped to handle a variety of materials, making it ideal for crafting, prototyping, and more.
The Makers Hub will offer safety certifications and instructional courses on how to properly and efficiently use these high-tech machines.
Our commitment to the circular economy model goes hand in hand with our dedication to community empowerment. The Compton Tool Library will encourage residents to repurpose, share, and create, reducing waste and promoting a sustainable way of life. It will be a place where residents can access resources such as tools and machinery while also connecting with other community members and sharing ideas.
As we celebrate this grant, we look forward to the future with great optimism. The Makers Hub is not just a place; it’s a movement. It’s about building a knowledgeable, resourceful, and interconnected Compton community, one workshop, tool, and conversation at a time. It’s about providing access to tools, knowledge, and resources that empower individuals to turn their dreams into reality.
We invite you to join us on this exciting journey towards community empowerment and sustainability. Whether you’re a maker, an entrepreneur, or someone who believes in the power of knowledge and community, there are countless ways to get involved.
Together, we will shape a future where every member of our community has the tools and resources needed to turn their ideas into reality. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Union Pacific Foundation, recognizing the potential and impact of our initiatives. With your support, we’re not just building a tool library; we’re building a brighter, more connected future for Compton.
Stay tuned for updates on our progress, opportunities to engage, and the exciting developments that lie ahead. Together, we’ll continue to empower our community through innovation, knowledge sharing, and a commitment to sustainable practices.
Interested in getting involved? Send us a message here.
