Local Couple Donates Photography Equipment to Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation to be used in Makerplace

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation secured a generous donation from a local couple, Andy and Katy Dickman, for the library's new Makerplace. The Dickmans, Arlington Heights residents and artists, donated $1,500 worth of photography equipment to be used by Arlington Heights residents in the new Makerplace.

The Makerplace offers hands-on experiential learning opportunities and a space where community members can take classes, test equipment and experiment with new hobbies. In addition to a commercial-grade kitchen, sewing room and a fabrication room, the Makerplace houses photography equipment that individuals can use at the Makerplace when working on independent projects. And this latest donation from the Dickmans rounds out the photography offering.

"The Makerplace allows people to try new hobbies without needing to purchase and store expensive equipment in their homes," explains Katy. "You can get hands-on experience with projects you wouldn't otherwise be able to complete thanks to this incredible community resource."

Both Katy and Andy have creative pursuits and are excited about the new community space. Katy enjoys photography and graphic design, while Andy works for a company that designs custom packaging. Though Katy once focused on portrait photography, she now primarily captures candid shots, so she donated much of her portrait photography gear, including backdrops and high-end lighting equipment to the Makerplace.

"Whether you're looking to start a business or indulging in a hobby, the Makerplace now has everything you need for a photo shoot," claims Katy. "The space gives a younger generation the chance to try different things, and the community ownership really brings people together. The Makerplace is a great source of referrals and friendships for hobbyists and business owners alike."

Andy also notes that the wide variety of cutting-edge technology is a huge asset to future jobseekers.

"Young makers and future tradespeople in Arlington Heights are so lucky to have access to this high-end equipment," he says. "As a manufacturer, we're always looking to hire people who have experience making things and working with the types of equipment the Makerplace houses. Between the equipment and classes, the Makerplace really sets our community apart."

Much of the equipment within the Makerplace was acquired via donations secured by the Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation and Friends of the Library. In fact, the Foundation funded nearly 20 percent of the total renovation costs of the Makerplace.

When considering what to do with their photography equipment, the Dickmans' friend and Makerspace Branch Assistant Manager, Chris Krueger, suggested they meet with the Foundation to discuss Makerplace needs and a potential donation.

"It's very important to us to give back to the community we cherish and think so highly of," says Andy. "So many people, including the Foundation, the library and donors, are going above and beyond to create a space like this for residents. And we are thrilled to play a part in that."

For more information on the Makerplace, visit ahml.info. For information on the Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation, visit www.ahmlfoundation.org.

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation is a not-for-profit, 501 (c)(3) tax exempt organization that provides funds to help develop and sustain a world-class library. The Foundation provides support to the Arlington Heights Memorial Library by securing financial and in-kind donations. Donors who have a strong belief in the importance of a healthy, vibrant library have the opportunity to donate funds to our non-profit, tax-exempt private organization.