GCLS InnovationStudio at RCSJ

InnovationStudio Logo

1400 Tanyard Rd., Sewell, NJ 08080

Learning Commons Building

InnovationStudio@gcls.org

(856) 803-5097

What is the InnovationStudio?

The Gloucester County Library System InnovationStudio, located on the Gloucester campus of Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ), is a public, 1624 sq. ft. makerspace that provides RCSJ students, faculty and members of the community access to cutting-edge technology and the opportunity to explore creative ideas. The collaborative learning space offers exposure to new technologies, fosters original thinking in students of all ages, and encourages community-based innovation and entrepreneurship in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).

Where is the InnovationStudio?

The InnovationStudio is located in the Learning Commons (Library) building on the Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester campus. For directions to RCSJ visit: https://www.rcsj.edu/Visit/Gloucester

RCGC campus map

What resources are available in the InnovationStudio? See the full list here.

Universal Laser Systems VLS3.50
The VLS3.50 is a laser cutter/engraver with a 24 x 12 inch work area. Projects can be highly detailed and can be made of wood, acrylic, and other types of materials.

MakerBot Replicator+
The Replicator+ is a 3D prototyping machine that can create quality 3D prints using PLA plastics. It is capable of printing any 3D design within an 11.6 x 7.6 x 6.5 inch area.

HTC Vive Virtual Reality Headset
The Vive allows users to create and explore in an immersive virtual world. Sensors track the user’s movement in 3D space and motion-tracked controllers allow for interaction with the virtual environment.

Silhouette Cameo 3 Vinyl Cutter
The Cameo is an open-source vinyl cutter capable of producing custom signs, displays for retail stores, heat transfer material for apparel, etching material for sand blasting, vehicle graphics, decals, and labels.

Button Making Machine and Supplies
Everything you need to make professional and perfect 2.25 inch buttons. Works well with a computer to create unique wearable pieces.

How can I use the InnovationStudio? 

To use the InnovationStudio, all Makers must:

  • complete a Maker Agreement form

  • verify his/her identity with valid library card or photo ID

  • All in-county Makers must have a valid library card from a LOGIN consortium member library. Out of county residents must present proper photo ID. 

Are you interested in using the laser cutter/engraver, 3D Printers, or vinyl cutter? To use these, you must:

  • Participate in mandatory safety training

  • Certification must be completed before they can be used

  • Certification training is scheduled by appointment only. Contact us via email at innovationstudio@gcls.org to schedule an appointment.

Are you certified for the laser cutter/engraver or 3D printer and want to reserve time to use it? Email us at innovationstudio@gcls.org to reserve your time.

RCSJ faculty and staff should register class and club projects in advance using our online Project Registration Form, so GCLS can have the materials and staff available to assist with the project. 

See GCLS Makerspace Policies for more information.

Does it cost anything to use the InnovationStudio?

Admission is free, however certain materials have a cost as outlined below:

3D prints:

  • Standard colors: $0.35 per 15 minutes, rounded up. (For example, a 20 minute print will cost $0.70.)
  • Special colors: $0.75 per 15 minutes, rounded up.

Laser Cutter/Engraver:

$5.00 minimum usage charge for the first hour. $2.50 for each additional half hour rounded up.

  • 1/8” Baltic Birch plywood - $0.05 per square inch, rounded up.
  • 1/8” Cast Acrylic (clear, white, black) - $0.05 per square inch, rounded up.

Materials costs in square inches, rounded up, will be calculated by GCLS staff, and include waste material created by the cut design within a rectangular area.

Adhesive Vinyl:

$0.15 per linear inch (x 12” or 15" wide) - rounded up to the nearest inch.

Cardstock & Construction Paper

$0.05 per sheet

Buttons:

$0.25 for 2.25" - One FREE everyday! (Not transferable to another person.)

CDs and DVDs: $.50 ea.

Large Format Poster Paper (up to 24" wide):

B&W:

  • Coated: $0.10 per inch
  • Heavyweight: $0.15 per inch

Color:

  • Coated: $0.20 per inch
  • Heavyweight: $0.30 per inch

Why a makerspace?

          

Establishing a makerspace at RCSJ supports the GCLS mission, which is to provide welcoming community spaces where people gather to learn, create, and have fun; and the mission of RCSJ as a center for learning that strives for academic excellence, supports the economic development of the community, and seeks to enhance the community's quality of life though affordable, accessible programs and services in a safe and caring environment.