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June 30, 2020

Hamilton East Public Library and its Ignite Studio Receives Power of Libraries Award

June 30, 2020
Contact:  Shelley Huffman, Marketing & Communications Manager
Email:  huffmans@hamiltoneastpl.org

HAMILTON EAST PUBLIC LIBRARY AND ITS IGNITE STUDIO RECEIVES POWER OF LIBRARIES AWARD

June 30, 2020, Fishers, IN – Hamilton East Public Library’s (HEPL) Ignite Studio has been awarded the SirsiDynix 2020 Power of Libraries Award for its work in supporting and uplifting the communities in its service area of Fishers and Noblesville, Indiana. SirsiDynix, a library software and technology company, created the annual award to recognize libraries nationwide that are inspiring and helping to bring change in their communities.

The Ignite Studio, located at the Hamilton East Public Library building in Fishers, IN was established in 2018 as an arts-focused makerspace that has connected thousands of people to their own creativity. The 15,000-square-foot makerspace was created by HEPL, in a space formerly occupied by Launch Fishers. On a given day, patrons can access equipment such as 3D printers, laser engravers, sewing machines and more; they can tinker with any of the various maker-kits and use the Ignite Studio space to bring their ideas to life.

Reflecting on the creation of the Ignite Studio, Library Director Edra Waterman said “It became clear to us, as we engaged with our communities about their aspirations, that themes of discovery, making, and connecting with art and creativity were a common thread in many of our conversations. Libraries are and have always been about access and connecting people with resources and ideas. Creating a new kind of public space, accessible to all, focusing on creativity, arts, and making seemed like a perfect fit.”

Since the COVID 19 library building closure, the Ignite Studio has expanded its high-touch hands-on makerspaces in the studio to include robust virtual offerings—like artist meetups, virtual drop ins, and virtual DIY instructional videos and classes. Recently, Ignite Studio began offering weekly Creativity Packs for distribution while its Kit Library remains temporarily closed.

Patrons come to the Ignite Studio for many reasons to embrace their creative spirit. “Ignite gives me a reason to imagine and dream as big as I want to. Ignite gives me the tools so I build and explore as I want to” said Samantha Francis, an Ignite Studio patron.

“The Ignite Studio team is grateful that SirsiDynix recognized our community of makers with this award. We believe that the maker mindset has helped to transform our community into a vibrant and creative place” said Ignite Studio Manager Katelyn Coyne. “We are so thankful to engage our patrons in this work.”

Learn more about Hamilton East Public Library and The Ignite Studio by visiting our website:  / or by calling 317-579-0300 or the Ignite Studio (317-579-0331).