Learn by doing — and have some fun, too! Here at the library, our Creative Learning team works to empower you and your family to learn through creative expression.
We provide equitable access to creative tools, technologies and experiences to help our community foster multiple literacies. We aim to nurture confidence, honor the cultures of our diverse communities and build connections between our patrons and the library. Join us to learn, create and grow!
What is creative learning?
Creative learning teaches new ways of understanding with creative tools, technologies and resources.
It encourages students to:
- Explore and experiment with different subjects and techniques.
- Express their thoughts and feelings creatively, building confidence and emotional intelligence.
- Apply knowledge and skills in the real world.
Creative Learning opportunities at the library
We offer three types of Creative Learning programs at the library. We aim to support all our patrons, especially those from marginalized communities. We also bring local presenters into the library, empowering our patrons to support each other in learning and creating.
Musical and visual arts
We offer free events and workshops that focus on building musical and visual skills across our system. Examples include open mic nights, sound design workshops, animation workshops and much more.
You can find computers with creative learning software in the teen room at Midland Library. East County Library, scheduled to open in spring 2026, will have a studio with technology that provides patrons a professional studio experience.
Makerspaces
A makerspace is a collaborative learning environment that provides access to creative equipment, software and support. You can learn real life technology, design and engineering skills through drop-in sessions, workshops and camps.
Rockwood Library’s makerspace, opened in 2016, focuses on supporting middle and high school learners. With 3D printers, sewing machines and more, you can learn new skills and create with your community. Check out our drop-in sessions — we have options for teens, adults or users of any age. The makerspace is made possible by gifts to The Library Foundation and a grant from the Mount Hood Cable Regulatory Commission through funds provided by cable companies.
While Rockwood Library is closed for construction, the Rockwood makerspace will move to Midland Library. The temporary makerspace at Midland will open on May 13 and will return to Rockwood once the library has reopened in fall 2025. Check out the temporary library services page for full, up-to-date information.
East County Library, scheduled to open in spring 2026, will also offer a makerspace. There will be room for classes exploring everything from robotics to construction to 3D printing. We can’t wait to offer this new resource to the community!
Systemwide programming
We bring creative technology and equipment like those used in our makerspaces to libraries across our system for events. Want to make your own shirt or tote bag using a heat press? No problem. Interested in engraving earrings with a Glowforge laser printer? Look no further. Have you always wanted to try a 3D pen? We’ve got you covered!
Check out Creative Learning programs in libraries across the Multnomah County Library system.
Who benefits from creative learning?
Everyone can benefit from creative learning, at any age! Creative learning:
- Helps you build and develop skills for the modern era.
- Encourages you to view challenges from different perspectives and come up with unique solutions.
- Promotes collaboration and working with your community through group activities.
- Fosters a lifelong love of learning.
- And much more!
Why does the library provide creative learning?
Libraries play an important role in the development of our young and adult patrons through different learning activities. We gathered data showing that local youth, teens and adults have an interest and desire for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) related learning. Our Creative Learning program lets us expand our STEAM offerings for all ages. We’ve seen great interest and success in our creative learning ecosystem since we began in 2016 with the Rockwood makerspace.
We hope you’ll join us at a Creative Learning event or space very soon! Whether it’s karaoke, screen printing or dropping by the makerspace, we’d love to have you learn with the library.