A new opportunity to learn, create and explore technology is coming to Magnolia, and residents will not need expensive equipment or a specialized workshop to take advantage of it. Beginning in November, the Malcolm Purvis Library will offer a dedicated Innovation Space where children, teenagers and adults can experiment with 3D printing, learn robotics and coding, try digital embroidery and develop practical skills using technology they might not otherwise have access to.

The Montgomery County Memorial Library System (MCMLS) will celebrate the grand opening of its newest Innovate@MCMLS Innovation Space on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m., at the Malcolm Purvis Library located at 510 Melton Street in Magnolia.

For local families, students, entrepreneurs and lifelong learners, the new space represents another way the public library is expanding beyond books and traditional services. Whether someone wants to create a personalized gift, introduce a child to engineering or become more comfortable using modern equipment, the Innovation Space will offer opportunities to learn through hands-on experience.

What Is Innovate@MCMLS, and What Will the Magnolia Innovation Space Offer?

Innovate@MCMLS is a systemwide initiative developed to expand access to creative technology, educational resources and innovative learning opportunities throughout Montgomery County. The initiative supports the library system's organizational priority of strategic innovation and its vision of serving as a leading resource for information, education, culture and innovation.

The first Innovate@MCMLS location opened at the Kevin Brady Library in February 2026. Malcolm Purvis Library will become the second location to offer a dedicated Innovation Space, bringing the program to the Magnolia community.

The new Magnolia library makerspace will feature equipment and learning materials designed for a wide range of ages and experience levels, including:

• 3D printers: Equipment for creating three-dimensional objects, prototypes and personalized projects.
• Cricut cutting machine: A large-format cutting machine for crafting, custom designs and creative projects.
• Digital embroidery machine: Technology that allows users to create embroidered designs on fabric.
• Interactive touch wall: A hands-on technology feature that encourages interactive exploration.
• Circulating STEM kits: Educational materials supporting robotics, coding, electronics, engineering and hands-on science activities.

The resources are intended to make technology more accessible while encouraging residents to explore interests that could develop into hobbies, educational pursuits or professional skills.

Importantly, the equipment and resources were selected with input from the people who will use them.

Earlier this year, the Malcolm Purvis Library team surveyed Magnolia residents about their interests and needs. Responses showed strong interest in hands-on creative technology, STEM education and tools that might otherwise be difficult for individuals and families to obtain.

That community feedback helped guide the equipment and resource selections for the new space.

Magnolia Economic Development Corporation Helps Bring Innovation Space to Life

The expansion of Innovate@MCMLS into Magnolia was made possible through support from the Magnolia Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

The partnership connects public library resources with the city's broader interest in workforce development, education and economic opportunity.

For residents interested in technology-related careers, small business development or creative entrepreneurship, access to specialized equipment can provide an opportunity to experiment and build skills before making a significant personal investment.

"This partnership expands access to hands-on tools and creative technologies," noted Robert Franklin, Chairman of the MEDC Board of Directors. "The Magnolia Economic Development Corporation hopes to open the door for residents of all ages to explore new ideas, build new skills, and discover pathways that could grow into future careers or business ventures."

The collaboration also reflects how public libraries are adapting to serve changing community needs, providing access not only to information but also to the tools people can use to put that information into practice.

"We are happy to welcome Innovate@MCMLS to the Magnolia Community," said Dr. Janna Hoglund, MCMLS Executive Director. "The new Innovation Space will give Magnolia residents a place to explore, collaborate and create. We are thankful to the Magnolia Economic Development Corporation and the City of Magnolia for its partnership and investment in this exciting community resource."

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Grand Opening on November 9 Will Include Demonstrations, Ribbon Cutting and Free 3D Printing Tickets

Residents interested in seeing the new Magnolia Innovation Space firsthand are invited to attend the grand opening celebration.

• Date: Monday, November 9, 2026
• Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
• Location: Malcolm Purvis Library, 510 Melton Street, Magnolia, TX

The event will include welcome remarks, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a cake cutting, tours of the Innovation Space and equipment demonstrations.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to receive free 3D printing tickets while supplies last.

For parents wondering whether the equipment might interest their children, or adults curious about learning a new skill, the celebration will provide an introduction to what the library has planned.

The library system also recognizes Magnolia Library Friends and I-SOLIDS Digital Manufacturing for supporting the grand opening event.

How to Use the 3D Printers, Cricut and Embroidery Machines at Malcolm Purvis Library

Following the grand opening, residents will have opportunities to learn how to operate the equipment through scheduled orientation classes.

Beginning Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Malcolm Purvis Library will offer equipment-specific orientations covering the safe and confident use of its 3D printers, Cricut and digital embroidery machines.

An orientation is required before a customer can reserve and operate the corresponding equipment.

Multiple sessions are planned throughout November, including 11 during the first two weeks following the grand opening.

After completing the appropriate orientation, customers can reserve equipment in advance by calling the Innovation Space desk at 936-538-8329. 

The library has also outlined the following equipment costs:

• Cricut machine: Free to use.
• Digital embroidery machine: Free to use.
• 3D printers: Certain printing fees apply.

Residents should keep in mind that free equipment use does not necessarily mean every project material will be provided at no cost. Customers can contact the library for details about supplies, equipment requirements and applicable 3D printing fees.

Upcoming orientation dates, classes and additional Innovation Space programs will be listed on the MCMLS Events Calendar.

A New Resource for Magnolia Students, Families and Future Entrepreneurs

For Magnolia-area students, the Innovation Space could offer opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics outside a traditional classroom.

A child interested in robotics could gain experience through hands-on learning kits. A teenager curious about coding or engineering could explore related activities. Adults interested in crafts, design or new career skills could become familiar with equipment that may be useful in personal or professional projects.

The library's emphasis on accessibility is especially relevant for households that may not have the space or budget to purchase specialized technology.

"Innovation is what keeps us moving forward. With the generosity of the MEDC, we are excited to bring new technology to Magnolia," said Kallie Yoars, Malcolm Purvis Library Manager. "The equipment and kits purchased will provide access to resources people might not find elsewhere, improve employable skills in community members, and educate the next generation in STEM. That is what this new initiative is all about."

Beyond individual projects, the space is intended to encourage collaboration and discovery, giving residents a place to learn alongside others with similar interests.

For a growing community like Magnolia, resources that support education, creativity and practical skill development can become an important part of how families and individuals connect with their local library.

What Magnolia Residents Should Know Before Visiting

Residents planning to explore the new Innovation Space can start by attending the November 9 grand opening, where demonstrations and tours will introduce the available technology.

Those interested in using the 3D printers, Cricut or embroidery machines after opening day should review the November orientation schedule and register for an appropriate session before attempting to reserve equipment.

As Innovate@MCMLS continues expanding across Montgomery County, the new Malcolm Purvis Library Innovation Space gives Magnolia residents another reason to visit their neighborhood library, whether they are helping a child discover an interest in science, learning to use unfamiliar equipment or turning a creative idea into something they can hold in their hands.

Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates on Magnolia community events, Montgomery County library programs, educational opportunities and local resources for families.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.

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