Join the Maker + STEAM Team in the Innovation Lab during specified open hours to discover how you can use the properties of electricity and circuit building in order to create a game controller with a Makey Makey kit! This is a self-paced activity. You can drop in during the listed Open Lab Hours. Innovation Lab Open Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday: 1pm - 5pm Wednesday: 3pm - 7pm Thursday: 10am - 2pm Friday: 1pm - 5pm Saturday: 11am - 1pm & 3pm - 5pm Hours subject to change based on staffing and programming needs.
This Week In the Lab: Makey Makeys is a drop-in science and technology workshop where kids learn to build functioning game controllers using simple electrical circuits. Located in the Innovation Lab at the Durham Main Library, this session lets children experiment with conductive materials and basic programming concepts in a relaxed, self-guided environment. This program is entirely free and requires no prior registration. It is best suited for elementary and middle school-aged children who can follow basic instructions independently. The library has its own parking deck with free parking for the first four hours, making it easy to get in and out without a hassle. You do not need to bring any supplies, as the library provides all the circuit kits and computers. Because this is a drop-in event, it makes a perfect low-pressure outing for a Wednesday afternoon. You can arrive at any point during the four-hour window, stay as long as your child remains interested, and pair the visit with a trip to the children's book section downstairs.
Do we need to register for the Makey Makey lab in advance?
No registration is required. This is a self-paced, drop-in event, so you can arrive at the Innovation Lab anytime between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
Where should we park at the Durham Main Library?
You can park in the library's dedicated parking deck. Parking is free for the first four hours, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the lab and browse books.
What age group is this activity best for?
While all ages are welcome, the circuit-building kits are ideal for children ages 7 and up who have the fine motor skills to handle small wires.
