The Carroll County Public Library yesterday broke ground on Exploration Commons at 50 East, a new and interactive community space at the Westminster Branch Library. Carroll County Commissioners Stephen Wantz and Dennis Frazier were on hand to participate in the groundbreaking ceremony.

Exploration Commons at 50 East will feature a state-of-the-art makerspace, professional teaching kitchen, and meeting space. A makerspace is a community center that provides residents with the tools and expertise to design, engineer, fabricate, and learn.

“The Carroll Technology Council is delighted to support the creation of Exploration Commons at 50 East to expand and influence technology resources in the community,” said Kati Townsley, executive director of the Carroll Technology Council. “The libraries are an integral part of our education and technology ecosystem and a place where every citizen is able to access cutting-edge technology and resources at a minimal cost. What an amazing asset we will have in Carroll County as a result of the creation of Exploration Commons.”

The makerspace will provide residents with hands-on access to equipment, resources, and instruction to explore their interests and bring their ideas to life. Several meeting and collaboration spaces will provide residents with the latest audio/visual equipment.

The professional teaching kitchen will offer programs focusing on fundamental cooking skills, nutrition, and an introduction to new cuisines. Culinary programs will provide the opportunity to build life skills and promote health and wellness.

The project, supported by the County Commissioners for Carroll County, the County Library Capital Grant Program – Maryland State Library, and private donors, is scheduled to open in June 2020.

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