LexIcon Library

The LexIcon journey began in 2007 with a decision to create a central library and cultural centre, aimed at stimulating enterprise, digital literacy, innovative entrepreneurship, and cultural activity in Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

 

In addition to offering extensive library services, the LexIcon is also home to the Municipal Gallery, showcasing exhibitions, events, and education programmes with a strong focus on digital literacy and technology.

 

Dr Jake Rowan Byrne, Creative Technology Curator since 2015, has devised a unique programme for the LexIcon LAB, providing experimental learning opportunities for the community within a public library environment.

 

Dr Byrne’s vision is to create a space where local people can work together to identify local challenges facing citizens and develop creative and innovative solutions, in a fun environment which promotes shared learning and collaboration.

 

To date the range and scale of events which have been introduced and included in the programme are as follows:

  • Programming from Scratch
  • Introduction to 3D printing
  • Introduction to Raspberry Pi and Arduino
  • Makey Makey sessions
  • Roboslam robot construction workshops
  • Go Pro video workshops
  • Python workshops
  • Web page creation
  • App Inventor workshops
  • Minecraft

 

Dr Byrne has also hosted regular drop-in ‘Maker evenings’ and facilitated workshops, run in partnership with DLR’s Social Inclusion Unit and the Local Enterprise Office – aimed at heightening interest in technology – in all its many forms.

 

3D Printers
3D Printers available at DLR LexIcon

 

The Lexicon provides access to 24 laptops. Other equipment available in the LexIcon LAB includes:

  • Two 3D printers
  • Two 80-inch screens
  • Four apple Macs
  • Four high spec CAD PCs
  • Maker kits
  • SMART table

 

The building itself is a smart building, with state of the art smart technology helping in all of the following practical ways:

 

  • Sensors monitor footfall, movement and CO2 levels, to adjust and predict lighting, temperature and oxygen needs
  • Light levels are designed to adapt to the natural daylight conditions, brightening when natural light is low, and dimming it whenever it is abundant.
  • Windows open or close automatically to regulate air quality
  • Nine wind cowls provide ventilation in every room with zero energy costs.

 

DLR lexiconresized

 

In summary, the whole ensemble of boilers, pumps, pipework, sensors, and windows is controlled by the building management system. Everything the building consumes – from gas to electricity and water flows – is metered, with all data generated from these meters fed back into the building management system, providing statistical knowledge on energy consumption over time.

 

Twitter: libraries@dlrcoco.ie

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