Innovation Lab
Explore ideas and creativity using the latest technologies
The Innovation Lab’s aim is to enable the community to see, share, touch and play with cool technology in a welcoming and inclusive space.
Amazing experience. It's a good chance to taste some very high-end technology. – Innovation Lab participant
Innovative experiences
Located in the Adelaide City Library, the Innovation Lab regularly hosts a variety of events, workshops, and training, all designed to explore ideas and creativity with new technology.
We’ve worked in collaboration with artists, local entrepreneurs and leading researchers to provide innovative programs and events to the whole community. Come experiment and explore the latest advancements in research and cutting-edge technologies including 3D printers, robotics, virtual reality and volumetric displays.
The Innovation Lab team support thousands of people invent, create and discover. They can even help you walk on the moon!
Which of these innovative experiences will you try first?
Learn the way Virtual Reality can be applied to real life through use of our Oculus Quest Pro and Oculus Quest 2 or HTC Vive and discover the wonders of this great new technology. You’ll be amazed! Choose from set games and experiences, with new and exciting apps added regularly. For a full experience head along to a Drop-in and Try information session.
Please note: terms and conditions apply to use of the VR equipment. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Virtual Reality is recommended for ages 13 and above.
Explore the exciting world of robotics with Ollie, Meccanoid or Mindstorm. Using the latest iPad apps, drive and race Ollie through a maze you’ve made, or perform a crazy trick combo! See how you can code Lego to solve a Rubicks Cube or meet our dino Meccanoid robot.
The Innovation Lab has a range of 3D printers and 3D pens to help you create and design your own 3D artwork. You can book a Maker Sessions and Drop-in sessions are available.
Maker Sessions are private, hands-on training sessions, facilitated by an Innovation Lab volunteer, for you and up to four of your friends, colleagues or family members on the one booking.
These 1.5-hour sessions are aimed at those wanting to get hands-on with 3D printing, modelling, scanning, or 3Doodler pens. With the help of a facilitator, you’ll be able to print your own 3D model, create a work of art with a 3D pen (for ages 8+) or design your own 3D object.
Equipment used during 3D Printing Sessions includes:
- Form 3 Resin printer
- Makerbot Replicator 5th Generation
- Me2 3D printer
- Start, Create and Pro 3Doodler 3D pens (Minimum age 8+) Visit 3Doodler to see a demo.
Please note the following requirements:
- You may bring your own 3D model file to print on a USB. STL file format is preferred but any python based coded file should also be compatible
- Alternatively, you can design something or select an existing model to print during the session
- Print sizes are limited by the session time available. As a guide, a 1.5-hour session enables you to print a high quality 4cm squared object
Have you always wanted to cut something with a laser? The answer should always be yes! Swing by a drop-in information session at the Innovation Lab to find out what this cool technology can do! Please check the list of compatible materials before booking to avoid disappointment.
Cancellations and feedback
If you need to cancel your booked session, please give 24 hours’ notice in consideration for our volunteers and to open the session to other customers.
If you have any feedback about the sessions or any projects to discuss we’d love to hear from you.
Volunteering
We also welcome registrations of interest from volunteers. As an Innovation Lab Volunteer, you will run Virtual Reality, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing and Discover Robotics sessions with members of the public. Please see the City of Adelaide volunteers section for more information.
Library of Things
Did you know that you can use your Adelaide City Libraries membership to borrow from our Library of Things?
A Library of Things is a collection of resources that may be useful occasionally, or that you may not have the opportunity to use regularly.
Why a Library of Things?
A Library of Things is a viable way of sharing and maintaining resources sustainably instead of buying.
It contributes to building community connections and the transition to a truly circular economy and helps reduce our collective impact on the planet.
How do you use our Library of Things?
Adelaide City Libraries have a range of resources and collections you can borrow from.
Visit this link to find out about what we have on offer and visit us with your Adelaide City Libraries card to start accessing these items today or come in and sign up for a FREE membership at any of our centres.
Need more information?
If you have any questions or feedback, need to cancel a booking, please contact the Adelaide City Libraries: