Idea Lab-STEAM Accessibility

The Idea Lab is an essential element of the Princeton Public Library. Located on the lower level of the library, the Idea Lab provides the ability for library users to gain experience in some of our STEAM related materials and to experiment with items that they may not have regularly available.

Though this area is open for public access, please ask the library staff to assist if you are unfamiliar with an item. We do ask that Idea Lab users sign in and out of the Idea Lab so that we may gauge interest and usage.

Library users may gain access to items such as:

3-D PRINTERS: The library possesses four FDM 3D Printers for public use that were gifted by the City of Princeton and the PPL Friends of the Library organization. These printers are available to the public as part of the Idea Lab. Users must have staff assistance while operating these machines unless the 3D Printer Course has been completed and/or permission granted by library staff. Beginning March 1, 2023 3-D printing will now be charged at a rate of 35¢ per meter, with a flat fee of 25¢ for everything under one meter. This is to help cover the cost of replacement filament, operational cost of the machines, and for any possible repairs or upkeep that may need to be done.

SENSORY BINS: The library has one large tote full of kinetic sand and one box of pinto beans for children to dig through and play in for sensory discovery.

SPHERO: Play around with our tablet operated spherical robot that performs fun acrobatics and games with your direction

LEGO: The library has a large selection of LEGO that may be used any time during opening hours.

DOMINO BLOCKS: These colorful blocks can be used for building your own maze to text your physics skills.

METAL STAMPING KIT: This is a fun way to make unique washer jewelry and key chains.

BUTTON MAKERS: We have two button makers (25mm and 58mm) available for you to express yourself. Patrons must ask a library staff member for assistance with these machines. A color printer is available for you to print out ready made images or you may draw/color your own unique design.

STICKER MAKER: Turn any picture into a sticker with this easy to use manual sticker maker. Ask a library staff member for assistance in instructing you in the process.