San Mateo County Libraries is excited to introduce our Maker in Residence program, designed to teach, inspire and bring hands-on STEAM learning opportunities to community members across San Mateo County.
This program offers a paid residency opportunity for makers who are passionate about sharing their skills, teaching others and creating inclusive, community-centered learning experiences through our libraries.
We’re looking for curious and creative Scientists, Technologists, Engineers, Artists and Mathematicians who are excited to share their skills and connect with the community as our first Maker in Residence.
Selected makers will mentor community members through hands-on experiences that encourage transformative learning within and beyond our libraries. Inspired by successful residency models from museums and arts organizations, this six-month program emphasizes ongoing engagement, giving library users repeated opportunities to explore STEAM topics, build skills and grow confidence through making.
The Maker in Residence will activate library spaces across the county through hands-on workshops, self-guided programs, Makermobile visits and open office hours, creating multiple opportunities for community members to learn directly from community experts.
Applications Now Open
Applications are now open for our Maker in Residence program, a residency opportunity for makers who want to teach, inspire and bring hands-on STEAM experiences to the community.
Check out the announcement, opens a new window for a complete description of the Maker in Residence qualifications and requirements.
To be considered, applicants must complete both steps below by Wednesday, March 4, 2026:
-
Email a resume and letter of interest describing your STEAM expertise to makerservices@smcl.org
-
Submit the Maker in Residence Application Form
We look forward to reviewing applications and selecting San Mateo County Libraries’ first Maker in Residence soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Additional requirements are listed below. Questions? Email us at makerservices@smcl.org
What is the Maker in Residence Program?
Maker in Residence programs enrich an institution’s public offerings and support the careers of local experts in a craft.
The Maker in Residence series aims to offer specialized maker experiences, both passive and active, for library patrons and community members of all ages. The selected resident maker will receive a stipend and a supply budget to foster transformative learning opportunities in our community libraries and with our Makermobile.
Who is eligible to apply?
Maker in Residence candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a maker background rooted in a STEAM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and/or Math)
- Be able to commit to the full residency period of six months
- Be available to meet the weekly hour expectations
- Have access to reliable transportation for travel between library and outreach locations
- Reside in the San Francisco Bay Area
Additional qualifications (not required, but helpful):
- Prior experience teaching, facilitating or leading workshops or community programs. Strong communication and instructional skills are also important to this role.
Add a comment to: Calling All Makers: Apply to Be Our First Maker in Residence