1. Purpose
The Shaker Heights Public Library Creative Spaces provide access to tools, technology, and equipment that support learning, creativity, and innovation. To ensure a safe and welcoming environment, all users must follow these rules and agree to the terms outlined below.
2. Eligibility & General Requirements
All users must read, understand, and agree to these Terms of Use before using Creative Space equipment.
- Users must have a Library card in good standing or be otherwise authorized by the library.
- Use of the Creative Spaces equipment is expected to be self-directed.
- Staff cannot design, make or complete projects for customers.
- Use of the Creative Spaces are subject to staff availability, equipment availability, and space capacity.
- Customers are responsible for saving their digital work to personal storage devices or their own cloud services.
- The library reserves the right to refuse or revoke Creative Space access at any time for safety concerns, policy violations, or misuse of equipment.
3. Training & Equipment Authorization
- Required training or orientation must be completed before using Makerspace equipment, as determined by Library staff.
- Some equipment may require additional, equipment-specific authorization.
- Users may only operate equipment for which they have been approved.
- Library staff may deny or suspend equipment use if a user demonstrates unsafe behavior or fails to follow instructions.
4. Age Requirements & Minors
- Minors must have a signed Parent/Guardian Consent and Release on file.
- Parents or legal guardians are responsible for the conduct and safety of minors using the Creative Spaces.
- Children 13 and under must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times while in the Creative Spaces.
5. Safe Use Expectations
All users must:
- Follow posted rules and staff instructions.
- Use equipment only as intended.
- Wear required personal protective equipment.
- Report accidents, injuries, or equipment issues immediately.
- Keep the workspace clean and orderly.
- Food and Drink are prohibited in the Creative Spaces.
- Unsafe behavior may result in immediate removal from the Creative Spaces.
6. Prohibited Uses
The Creative Spaces may not be used to:
- Create weapons, weapon components, or items prohibited by law.
- Engage in illegal, unsafe, or hazardous activities.
- Produce items that violate local, state, or federal laws.
- Use equipment while impaired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Use equipment for projects that are inappropriate in a public setting or that creates a disturbance.
7. Intellectual Property
- Users retain ownership of original works they create.
- Users are solely responsible for ensuring their projects do not infringe on copyrights, trademarks, patents, or other intellectual property rights.
- The library is not responsible for intellectual property violations committed by Creative Space users.
8. Fees, Materials & Damage
- Use of the Creative Spaces is free. Users may be responsible for material costs, consumables, or fees as established by the library.
- Users may be charged for damage caused by misuse, negligence, or failure to follow instructions.
9. Accessibility & Equity
Shaker Heights Public Library is committed to equitable access and will make reasonable accommodations when possible. However, safety requirements, equipment limitations, and staff capacity may limit certain uses or accommodations.