The Hernando County Public Library System will host two makerspace open houses at their Spring Hill and East Hernando branches on Saturday, Aug. 5, inviting all county residents to get crafty.
“Craft Makerspace Open House is an all-day drop-in and make or take a craft day,” said Cindy Loftis-Culp, Library Director. “Pop in and pick something up, or stay and work on your craft there.”
Boasting free admission and all art supplies provided, Craft Makerspace Open Houses will be offered at the Spring Hill Branch Library, 9220 Spring Hill Dr., Spring Hill, 9 am – 4:30 pm (contact Jennifer Hodges at [email protected] or (352) 754-4043 for more information) and the East Hernando Branch, 6457 Windmere Rd., Brooksville, 9 am – 1:30 pm (contact Valerie Martin at [email protected] or (352) 754-4043 for more information). Registration is not required for these sessions.
“Origami, jewelry making, and much more will be offered for all ages,” said Loftis-Culp. Painting is another activity that will be offered at both makerspace sessions. In addition to picking up a brush to paint a masterpiece, paper to fold an origami sculpture, or glittery baubles and beads to make a jeweled piece of wearable art, patrons can check out handy reference texts on crafting at both libraries.
“You can also find books with all types of crafts on display, so you can take them home and try something new,” said Loftis-Culp. While books remain the main focus of library services, the Hernando County Public Library System also provides many programs and tools for visitors who want to hone their creative abilities.
“We also have a Learn to Sew class at the East Hernando Branch on the same day from 2 pm to 4 pm,” said Loftis-Culp. The library system also offers an ongoing Art Attack program for children and adults, with the Art Attack@Your Library program garnering support from the Hernando County Fine Arts Council’s Community Arts Grant program.
Art Attack is conducted once a month at each of the library system’s four branches, with separate programs provided for children and adults. Various art-themed classes encourage patrons to “create and showcase their talents and learn new and different techniques.” All sessions of this inclusive art program focus on the seven elements of art: Line, Shape, Form, Space, Color, Texture, and Value.
Guests can pick up skills in tape art, mask making, art card painting, drawing realistic and fantastical subjects, creating jewelry, designing cards, painting rocks, and more during any given session.
Various other library craft sessions teach skills that range from paper quilling to canvas bag decorating. And the library system offers an online crafting resource known as Creativebug, which “offers online video arts and crafts workshops and techniques. Learn how to paint, knit, crochet, sew, screen print, and more.” (https://www.creativebug.com/lib/hernandocounty).
Loftis-Culp invites the community to get crafty at the Hernando County Public Library System on Aug. 5. “All supplies are provided, and we hope that we see lots of people of all ages come in and enjoy!”
