Hosting Organization: Hunterdon County Library
County: Hunterdon
The Hunterdon County Library celebrated New Jersey Makers Day on March 28, 2026, with a large-scale, multi-branch event that welcomed approximately 1,600 attendees. Held across three library locations, the day showcased hands-on learning, creativity, and strong community engagement, made possible through the efforts of library staff, exhibitors, and more than 50 student and adult volunteers. The event was supported by the Friends of the Hunterdon County Library and a mini-grant from the New Jersey STEM Pathways Network.
At the Headquarters and North County Branch locations, visitors explored a wide range of interactive activities spanning art, technology, and craftsmanship. Participants engaged in projects such as soldering, assembling 3D-printed rockets, watercolor painting, jewelry making, basket weaving, woodworking, and robotics demonstrations. Makerspace highlights included demonstrations of advanced tools like a fiber laser, longarm quilter, and multi-needle embroidery machine, offering attendees a glimpse into both creative and technical applications.
Community partnerships played a key role in the event’s success, with local organizations, artists, educators, and clubs contributing hands-on experiences that reflected their unique expertise. By bringing together these partners alongside volunteers and residents, the event reinforced the library’s role as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning, while continuing to expand access to engaging STEM opportunities across the community.