Free and open-source tools for digital literacy, STEM, and maker programming
These tools empower libraries to offer coding education, creative design, 3D printing, and video production—all without expensive software licenses!
| Need | Recommended Tool | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Coding Education (Kids) | Scratch, Blockly | Visual programming for beginners |
| Coding Education (Advanced) | Processing | Creative coding and interactive art |
| Image Editing | GIMP, Krita | Photo manipulation and digital painting |
| Vector Graphics | Inkscape | Logo design and illustrations |
| 3D Modeling | Blender, FreeCAD | 3D design and animation |
| 3D Printing | PrusaSlicer, OpenSCAD | Preparing models for 3D printers |
| Audio Editing | Audacity | Recording and editing audio |
| Video Production | OBS Studio, Kdenlive, Shotcut | Recording and editing video content |
Visual Programming for Kids
Block-based visual programming language designed for children ages 8-16. Create interactive stories, games, and animations while learning coding concepts.
License: Open Source
Visual Programming Library
Google's visual block programming library. Can be integrated into educational platforms and used to teach programming logic through drag-and-drop blocks.
License: Apache 2.0 (Open Source)
Creative Coding Environment
Flexible software sketchbook and language for learning to code within visual arts context. Perfect for creating interactive graphics and animations.
License: GPL (Open Source)
3D Creation Suite
Professional-grade 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and video editing suite. Used by studios worldwide and perfect for advanced maker projects.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Image Editing Software
Powerful photo manipulation and image editing tool. Free alternative to Photoshop with layers, filters, and professional-grade features.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Vector Graphics Editor
Professional vector graphics software for logos, illustrations, diagrams, and designs. Free alternative to Adobe Illustrator with SVG support.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Digital Painting Software
Professional painting program designed for concept art, texture painting, and illustrations. Excellent for digital artists with brush engines and layer support.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Audio Recording & Editing
Easy-to-use multi-track audio editor and recorder. Perfect for podcasts, music editing, and audio restoration for library programs.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Parametric 3D Modeler
Open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler designed for engineering and product design. Great for mechanical parts and technical designs.
License: LGPL (Open Source)
Script-based 3D Modeling
Programmers' solid 3D CAD modeler using script descriptions. Perfect for parametric designs and teaching computational thinking through 3D modeling.
License: GPL (Open Source)
3D Printer Slicer Software
Powerful slicer software that prepares 3D models for printing. Works with most 3D printers and provides excellent print quality control.
License: AGPL (Open Source)
Screen Recording & Streaming
Free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. Perfect for creating tutorials, recording presentations, and streaming library events.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Video Editor
Free, cross-platform video editor with wide format support. User-friendly interface with professional features for creating library program videos.
License: GPL (Open Source)
Professional Video Editor
Full-featured non-linear video editor with multi-track editing, effects, and transitions. Ideal for more advanced video production projects.
License: GPL (Open Source)