RESEARCH SUPPORT SPACE

Creator Commons

The Creator Commons provides access to creative technologies, hands-on learning opportunities, and space for making and connecting.
Student arranges a vinyl design on a totebag in the makerspace.

Using the Location

What to expect

  • The Creator Commons Makerspace is located on the first floor of the West Tower of Wells Library in room W142.
  • This space is open to all IU students, faculty, and staff during our drop-in hours. 
  • The Creator Commons is a learning environment. Our staff can demonstrate equipment and answer basic questions, but the making is up to you!
  • Tools and materials are free to use, with some limits on usage and quantities.

  • Equipment such as cameras, microphones, and more is available for IU students, faculty, and staff at the Creator Commons.
  • We do not charge late fees.
  • If an item is more than one week overdue, the student will be billed for the full replacement cost and will lose equipment borrowing privileges for the remainder of the semester. The replacement charge will be removed if the item is returned and confirmed to be in working condition.
  • Most items can be checked out for up to 1 week at a time and may not be renewed online. 
  • Equipment items must be returned to the Wells Library Creator Commons during open hours and will not be accepted elsewhere in the library.
  • Students can borrow one item per category (ex: one camera, one tripod).
  • If a student does not pick up their item within 2 days of the reservation, we will cancel the reservation to make it available to others. 

 

  • Make high-quality videos in our self-serve studio. 
  • The Creator Commons Studio is located on the first floor of the West Tower of Wells Library. Visit the makerspace where staff can unlock the space. 

Getting Started

  • When you visit the Makerspace, a staff member will help you set up your file in the appropriate slicing software. We will need a .stl or .obj file to get started. 
  • If you are looking for something to print, Thingiverse and Printables are popular websites that have free 3D models. 
  • If you want to create your own designs, Tinkercad is a free, browser-based program that is great for beginners!

Reservations & Policies

  • Usage is limited to one reservation per week, with a maximum print time of 10 hours.
  • Our printers are fee to use, as long as you follow our usage guidelines.
  • We typically have red, white, and black filament available.
  • We highly recommend that you make a reservation before visiting because our printers are running constantly!

Alternative Print Locations