Do Space

Do Space is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community center for technology, digital library, education, and small makerspace featuring 3D printing technology in Omaha, Nebraska.^[1][2]

Do Space

Established	November 2015
Location	5111 N 90th St, Omaha, Nebraska
Coordinates	41.304604°N 96.051688°W / 41.304604; -96.051688
Public transit access	Metro Area Transit Buses: 2, 8, 18, 92, 98
Website	dospace.org

History

Do Space opened in the fall of 2015. Do Space is managed by the non-profit Community Information Trust, which itself is managed by local Omaha philanthropic organization, Heritage Services.^[3][4]

It was located at the southwest corner of 72nd and Dodge Streets in what was a former Borders Books.^[5][6] The building, which was vacant, required retrofitting and modernization of the existing structure.^[7] The project, which dates back to 2014, has included $4.1 million for the purchase of the vacant building^[8] and $7 million to renovate and fill the space.^[9] The design of the building was done by HDR, Inc. Do Space partners with various organizations, including Metropolitan Community College and Omaha Public Library.^[10]

In 2023, the building was demolished to make way for the construction of the Omaha Central Library.^[11] In preparation for the construction, Do Space temporarily moved to the Milton R. Abraham's Branch of the Omaha Public Library.^[12]

Services

Patrons can use Apple, Windows, and Ubuntu computers that have office, CAD and graphics programs and can access Omaha Public Library databases while at Do Space.^[13] Do Space also has tablets and laptops for use, as well a 3D lab that has 3D printers, 3D scanners, and a laser cutter. There are large-format printers as well as break-out rooms with touch screen bulletin boards.^[14]

Do Space provides its services free to the public, except for expendables like printing and 3D materials.^[1] There are dedicated spaces for small children, teens, as well as adults.^[15] There is a group specifically geared towards seniors that incorporates peer-style information-sharing.^[16] Metropolitan Community College holds classes on the second floor.^[9] Do Space provides a meeting space to nurture an innovation incubator and various community tech groups meet there.^[14]

Leadership

In February 2015, Rebecca Stavick, co-founder of the civic hacking group Open Nebraska and former Omaha Public Library employee,^[17] was hired as the executive director of Do Space.^[18] Michael Sauers, formerly with the Nebraska Library Commission, is the Director of Technology.^[19]