The Tech Annex

The Tech Annex is a unique space in the library that is part interactive history museum, part maker space. Opened on April 6, 2006 with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by then-Mayor Donald Peloquin, the space has been partially funded through a grant from the Illinois State Library and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. A creative space with a recording studio, public access computers with a variety of production and design software, and a knowledgeable staff to lend a hand, the Tech Annex is designed to offer the best in technology and encourage creativity among the residents of Blue Island. For more information, please contact the Tech Annex—708-388-1078 x12, techannex@blueislandlibrary.org

Makerspace

Carved from storage space, the Blue Island Public Library’s Makerspace embodies the maker-ethos of “make what you can from what you have at hand”. Art, crafts, upcycling. Open Maker Hours and the occasional guided program happen here – off the beaten track. Bins of raw materials and the tools needed to turn your ideas into something tangible . . . or just to make a mess. Either is acceptable, as long as you clean up after yourself and respect other maker’s projects. Freshly renovated in 2022, the Makerspace offers a bright and cheerful space for children’s programming.
Makers under 13 need to be accompanied at all times by an adult guardian.

Meeting Rooms

 Blue Island Public Library has two meeting rooms, the Makerspace and a Study Room/Recording studio available for use by the public. The small Conference Room is suitable for up to 12 people while the large Meeting Room  can comfortably hold up to 50. The Makerspace can accommodate up to 25, while the Study Room can hold up to 3 people. Please note that the rooms are not available to commercial/for-profit organizations, for religious worship or for social events. Please see our Policies Page for the complete policy. Applicants are expected to read the policies before completing a request.

Meeting rooms must be reserved a minimum of 7 days in advance and all applications are subject to the approval of the Library Director. The Library does not  endorse the philosophies or practices of the individuals, groups, clubs, or organizations that use public meeting rooms in the Library. The Library is not responsible for the content of third-party programs.

Fees are to be paid prior to room use and are as follows: For Blue Island Library Card holders, the Large Meeting Room and Makerspace is $25 per hour. The small Conference Room is $15 per hour.  For NON Blue Island Library card holders, Meeting Room and Makerspace are $50 per hour, small Conference Room is $30 per hour.  There is no fee for reserving the Study Room, policy available below.


Submit Application:  info@blueislandlibrary.org

Study/Recording Room Policy

Meeting Room Policy

Meeting Room Application