Maury Loontjens Library in Narragansett

Maury Loontjens Memorial Library Makerspace Policy

Approved by the Library Board of Trustees 3.3.2025

The Library’s Makerspace is available to all patrons during walk in times and scheduled events. The intent is to foster creativity, collaboration and to supplement the educational enrichment provided by the library. Users will develop theoretical skills, grow knowledge through practice and experimentation while fostering skills in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math while using the Makerspace. 

General Policy: 

  • Makerspace Hours will be posted monthly on the Makerspace calendar and outside the room. 
  • Behavior that is deemed inappropriate or objectionable as defined by the Library’s Rules for Patron Conduct may lead to suspension from the library. 
  • Children under the age of 18 may not use this space without adult supervision. 
  • Library staff will be available to teach patrons how to use the space and related equipment on a first come first serve basis. 
  • Users are responsible for cleaning their work spaces before leaving. 
  • Supplies provided by the library are free, however the staff reserves the right to initiate charges in the event of a project that uses excessive materials. 
  • Patrons using makerspace equipment to create a project must abide by all US copyright and patent laws. The Maury Loonjtens Memorial Library and the Makerspace are not responsible for any copyright breach.
  • Notice Concerning Copyright and Other Intellectual Property Restrictions: 
    • The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material
    • Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement.
    • This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright or other intellectual property laws.

Project Policy: 

  • Projects created in this space must be approved by appropriate library staff on site and items deemed as dangerous or unlawful will not be allowed in the Makerspace. 
  • Projects created in the space are not to be used for commercial use. 
  • Patrons are encouraged to ask for assistance from staff in order to help facilitate their learning experience. 
  • Patrons may not leave their personal projects or materials in the makerspace overnight unless given permission by staff. Patrons have 2 weeks to pick up any creations or projects. After that time the library is not responsible for items left.
  • Patrons may provide their own materials for their personal projects with staff permission. 
  • Projects can only be worked in the Makerspace during walk-in hours. 

Safety: 

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), first aid supplies, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment will be available as needed. 
  • No open toed shoes in the makerspace. 
  • Ensure that all jewelry, clothing, or hair is secured while operating the equipment. 
  • Keep your hands away from the machines while they are in operation. If there is a critical failure in the machine, inform a staff member and they will attend to it. 
  • Should an injury or incident occur in the space users must inform a staff member immediately so that they may assist you.



emweb