Did you know that you can record a podcast at North Lakes Library?
You don’t need to buy a collection of microphones or turn a spare bedroom into a recording room. There is already a four-microphone setup inside the library — and library members can book the space for free.
It is part of The Digital Studio, a mixed-purpose creative room that goes considerably further than the computers, printing and Wi-Fi most people might expect to find at their local branch.
Podcasting is only part of it. There is also a Cricut cutting machine, a collection of programmable robots and equipment for creating digital content.
A Podcast Setup Ready to Go
The recording equipment is substantial enough for more than someone experimenting with a microphone and a laptop.
There are four sets of professional monitoring headphones, a RODECaster Pro II podcasting mixer, an audio interface, studio monitors and a 24-inch iMac loaded with GarageBand and RODECaster software.
In practical terms, someone could sit down with a guest — or several — and record an interview, podcast or other audio project without having to assemble their own studio first.
A green screen and ring light add another option for people creating video content with their own recording equipment.
There is a little homework involved. Users are expected to have a basic understanding of the equipment rather than relying on library staff to run a recording session for them. Introductory videos are available, while anyone making a booking can also request an induction walkthrough when they arrive.
And Then There Are the Robots
Walk further into what The Digital Studio offers and it becomes a rather different picture of a suburban library.
Its Cricut Maker 3 can cut paper, cardstock and vinyl for projects such as stickers, cards, labels and iron-on designs. Cutting mats and tools are provided, and beginners can request a small starter pack of paper and vinyl when booking. More experienced users are expected to bring their own materials.
Then there is the Tech Trolley, with an Intelino Smart Train, a Sphero Bolt programmable robot ball and Botzee, along with obstacle courses and an iPad loaded with the apps needed to control and experiment with them.
Some North Lakes families may already have encountered the robots through library activities involving coding and technology. What may be less obvious is that podcasting, digital creation, Cricut projects and robotics all sit within the same Digital Studio.
So, Can You Just Book It?
Pretty much — although there are a few conditions.
The Digital Studio is free to hire, but the person making the booking must be a City of Moreton Bay library member and at least 18 years old. Younger people can use the studio as long as someone over 18 makes the booking and supervises them throughout the session.
Users must also agree to the studio’s terms of use. An induction walkthrough can be requested with a booking, although library staff do not provide ongoing technical support while people work on their projects.
Anyone who would rather look around before deciding what they might make will get that chance this month.
North Lakes Library is holding a free Studios Open Day on Saturday, 17 October from 9.30am to noon, when visitors can try podcasting, make a sticker using the Cricut and experiment with robotics.
The Open Day is for ages 12 and over and no booking is required.
For anyone who has walked into North Lakes Library countless times without knowing what was behind the studio door, it might be worth taking a look.
Published 30-September-2026
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