Fab Lab
Equipment reservations are unavailable at this time. Lab classes at the Fab Lab Pop-Up at NoMa started on June 26, 2018. Additional classes and reservations will be available at the Fab Test Lab at Reeves Center, 14th and U St. NW, when it opens, Spring 2019.
Sign up for email updates at bit.ly/labs-email and check the MLK Interim Services page for updates on the Martin Luther King Jr. Library modernization and interim services.
What is the Fab Lab? The Fab Lab, or Fabrication Lab, is DC Public Library's collaborative work space for making, learning, and exploring emerging and computer-assisted technologies along with maker tools, old and new. The Labs offer programming for all ages in general and specific skills.
Interim plans for the Fab Lab include:
Fab Lab Pop-Up at NoMa
1150 First St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002
The NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue) neighborhood, is hosting a Fab Lab Pop-Up, a demonstration and maker programming space built in a repurposed shipping container. It offers 3-D printing and laser cutter demos along with a variety of classes, workshops and events. Please note that equipment reservations are not available at the pop-up. The Fab Lab Pop-Up opened on June 26, 2018 thanks to the generous support of NoMa BID, The Institute of Museum and Library Services, Uber, and the DC Public Library Foundation. Space for the project was provided by Tishman Speyer.
Fab Test Lab
2000 14th St. NW, First Floor, Washington, D.C. 20009
(Spring 2019)
The Fab Test Lab will be located in the Franklin D. Reeves Municipal Center. The Fab Test Lab is a space to test out maker programs and services in preparation for the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library reopening. Equipment may include: 3-D Printers, 3D Scanning, CNC Machine, Hand Tools, Laser Cutters, Sewing Machines, Power Tools, and more.
The technology in the Digital Commons, Fab Lab and Studio Lab are made possible in part by the Institute or Museum and Library Services.
Membership Process
1. Sign a release form. If under 18, parental consent is required.
2. Attend 30-minute orientation. The orientation gives an overview of the space, equipment, and safety guidelines. To use specific equipment without supervision, you must take an individual equipment orientation. Equipment requiring certification includes:
- Universal Laser Cutter
- DIWire Bender
- 3-D Printers
- Sewing Machines
3. Make things! Staff-instructed classes or demos may or may not require a Release Form or orientation, depending on what tools and equipment are being used. An orientation is not required to participate in programs at the Fab Lab Pop-Up at NoMa.
Age Policy
The Fab Lab is designated for use by persons aged 13 and older.Children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.
Children under the age of 6 are prohibited from entering the space.
Parental consent is required for anyone under the age of 18.
Release Form
You can download and sign your Release Form before coming to orientation.Download as Word document | PDF
Back to the Labs at DC Public Library or bit.ly/labsclasses