Services » Exploration HUB

Exploration HUB at Dove Library

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    The Exploration HUB is more than a room - it's a community. Whether you're a coder, a crafter, or a curious explorer, there's a spot for you here. Remember: in this space, the only limit is your imagination. 

    What’s available?

    • Windows laptops (for in-house checkout only)
    • Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D printers
    • Coding and Robotics with MakeCode and Micro:bit
    • Silhouette Cameo 5
    • Memory Lab - VHS/VHS-C, HI-8, 8mm and Super 8mm Film, Photo Scanner

    What are the rules and guidelines? 

    • Guidelines:
      • Staff: teach, guide and support.
      • Patrons: Design, build and complete their own self-directed projects.
    •  Rules:
      • Ages 13+: Independent use of HUB equipment. (HUB laptops: 13+ only.)
      • Ages 9–12 : Parent/guardian help recommended. Required for HUB laptops and equipment requiring them (e.g., Silhouette Cameo, 3D printing)
      • Under 9: Parent/guardian must be present and assisting with projects.

        Staff may limit use for safety and are not substitutes for parent/guardian assistance.

     

    Exploration HUB hours:

    Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 6:45 p.m.
    Friday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.
    Sunday, 1 p.m - 4:45 p.m.

    Are you new to the HUB or have questions? Contact staff at explorationhub@carlsbadca.gov or 442-339-2039 for assistance. 

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    Memory Lab and Makerspace

    What is the Memory Lab?

    Part of the Exploration HUB where patrons can sit and convert old movies, film reels or scan photos, slides or negatives to digital format. Staff is available to assist. 

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    Do you offer demos on how to use the equipment and software?

    Yes, we encourage patrons to attend a free demonstration where staff will show you how to use the software and equipment before you reserve a Memory Lab Station. No registration required.

    • Photo Scanner Demo
    • Video and Film Conversion Demo

    Click here for upcoming dates and times.

    Do I have to make a reservation to use the equipment?

    Yes, patrons ages 13 and older can reserve one piece of equipment for up to four hours, once per day. You will need a valid Carlsbad City Library card with internet privileges.

    Reserve a Memory Lab Station based on your specific needs.

    • 8mm and Super 8mm Film (3 inch & 5-inch reels)
    • Hi-8 Tape
    • Photo Scanner
    • VHS and VHS-C Tape 

    How long will conversion take?

    This depends on the length of the video tape, how many photos, slides or negatives that need scanning, or the size and quality of the final digital file.

    VHS and Hi8 tapes are digitized in real time. This means that 1 hour of video will take 1 hour to convert. 8mm and Super 8 film is even slower because each frame must be captured. For example, 10 minutes of film can take up to an hour to digitize.

    Can I leave the Exploration HUB while my videos are being converted?

    While we understand it takes a long time to convert a video tape, we require that you stay with their project in case something needs attention, or an adjustment needs to be made.

    How do I get my files home?

    Bring a USB flash drive to save your files on.

     Programs and Activities

    What is an Orientation? 

    Not sure what you can do in the Exploration HUB? Patrons ages 13 and older are welcome to attend an orientation, all three occurring on the first week of each month, where staff will go over one of the following topics and allow time for discussion, questions and hands on practice time. No registration required, it is on a first come, first served basis. 

    Click here for upcoming dates and times. 

    • 3D Printing and Design
      • Learn about 3D design, how to start designing and how to submit and "slice" 3D files to get printed in the Exploration HUB.
    • Coding and Robotics
      • Learn what coding is, why we need it and how to start coding using MakeCode, MakeCode Arcade and how to use Micro:bits to play retro-arcade games or move a mini robot. 
    • Crafting with Silhouette Cameo
      • Learn about the Silhouette Cameo, an electronic cutting tool and what you can make with it, from personalized tote bags to party decorations. See the variety of materials that can be used and how the Studio software offers a variety of options for you to be creative.