If you're a maker who's excited to share your craft and skills, you might be our next Maker-in-Residence. The application closes at 11:59 p.m. on February 25, 2025.
As the Chicago Public Library Maker-in-Residence, you will lead classes that invite library visitors to share in your craft and you will create a work that will be displayed at the Harold Washington Library Center Maker Lab window on State Street.
Two residencies are available. Each residency runs for 12 weeks, with the first term running from April to June and the second term running from August to October.
The Makers-in-Residence will:
- Facilitate six classes for library patrons at the Harold Washington Library Center.
- Access Maker Lab equipment and staff assistance.
- Interpret local culture or history using their craft, Maker Lab tools and additional supplies.
- Create a work incorporating themes explored with class participants.
- Have their work exhibited at Harold Washington Library Center.
- Be compensated $6,000 for the 12-week residency.
- Have a supply budget of $800.
Classes may be in-person, online or developed as how-to videos. Classes can be scheduled on Monday evenings between 5 - 8 p.m. and Saturday afternoons at 2 p.m., with Wednesday mornings as an alternate possibility.
You’ll work 10 hours per week which includes scheduled Meet the Maker events so library visitors can learn about your work, your project and classes. Learn more about previous Makers-in-Residence.
About You
You are a current Chicago resident and can show a State of Illinois ID, Illinois Driver's License, Chicago CityKey with your Chicago address, or be able to show two pieces of current ID. One of these must include your name and Chicago address, opens a new window, and one must include your name and photo.
You can create an environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their stories. You have time-management skills and ideas on where to source materials with a $800 supply budget. You have a vision on how to fill a window approximately 7' by 7' with your thematic work. Your class ideas offer variation in technique or material.
Preference will be given to themes exploring any of the following: storytelling, community, connection, and curiosity.
Questions about the residency or application? Contact makerspace@chipublib.org.
The Maker-in-Residence program is in its eighth year and is generously funded by the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
