KANSAS CITY, Mo. – There is a new place for teens to safely have fun and learn this summer.
Tucked away in a Kansas City Southeast Branch is a place just for young people. They call it a digital lab.
In it, students can learn 3D printing, robotics or work on a song in the audio studio.
“Creating a space for young people where they can hang out, they come in and produce content,” said Digital Youth Engagement Manager, Andrea Ellis.
Once he saw the 3D printer – 10th grader Xzavior Brough was hooked.
“Mr. Brown taught me the foundation on how to do everything,” said Brough.
Brough has been in the lab every day since it opened. He says it’s a safe space – to learn new things.
“I wait to come here because of how much fun I have here. They have 3D printing, there is a studio and editing. I am going to try and do all of them so I can see what I want to do," said Brough.
Ellis said they purposefully put the lab at the Swope Parkway location.
“Within a mile, there are five schools and kids can walk here, get on the bus to get here. So why not come to where they already are and give them access to something that they wouldn't have access to,” said Ellis. “There is a part of them that is amazed that this is for them. That someone took the time to build something that is specifically for them.
