Parma, OH – October 2, 2024 – Cuyahoga County Public Library (CCPL) has announced a generous $500,000 gift from Solon-based global manufacturing company Swagelok to create the Swagelok Innovation Center at CCPL’s Solon Branch located at 34125 Portz Parkway.

The gift will provide financial support for construction of a 1,350-square-foot innovation center. When completed, this center will be the largest and most advanced maker space in the CCPL system, which currently operates six Innovation Centers across the county.

CCPL's Swagelok Innovation Center will be a creative, collaborative, and educational space focused on nurturing the most in-demand, entry-level skills that local businesses seek, educating students about career pathways in smart manufacturing and providing free access to design software, equipment, and training that supports regional workforce development. Users that complete a free orientation class offered by CCPL will be able to access and use the Center’s various design and production tools, including a vacuum former, waterjet cutter and other equipment.

CCPL will host a variety of free STEAM programs for all ages at the Swagelok Innovation Center, including classes on how to use the equipment. Drop-in support and equipment demonstrations will also be provided by CCPL.

“At CCPL our mission is to empower individuals and communities by providing opportunities for all to read, learn, create and connect,” says Tracy Strobel, Cuyahoga County Public Library CEO. “Our Innovation Centers support that mission by providing all county residents with opportunities to learn valuable new skills. Swagelok's contribution will further strengthen the programming and services that the Library offers in support of STEM learning and workforce development.”

"At Swagelok, innovation is one of our core values and we are thrilled to support CCPL with the launch of its new facility in Solon and continue to advance smart manufacturing initiatives in the region. Swagelok proudly supports manufacturing and STEM initiatives in Northeast Ohio, and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact the CCPL's Swagelok Innovation Center will have on our community for years to come,” said Hannah Delis, Chief Human Resources Officer at Swagelok.

The $500,000 gift comes from the Swagelok Foundation and will help support CCPL Solon Branch's ongoing 4,000 square-foot expansion. CCPL’s Solon Branch, originally opened in 1988, will include the addition of a full-service drive-up window to ensure greater accessibility for visitors and more collaboration and meeting space. The branch’s geo-thermal system will also be upgraded. Completion of the $7 million project is estimated for March 2025. The architecture firm for the project is CBLH Design. The construction company is Infinity Construction Co. Inc.

About Swagelok Company

Swagelok is a worldwide leader in industrial fluid systems—founded in 1947 on the merits of its revolutionary, leak-tight tube fitting. With customer-focused solutions and a passion for making high-quality products, the company serves industries requiring safe and efficient movement of liquids and gases. An approximately $2 billion company headquartered in Northeast Ohio, Swagelok operates more than 20 manufacturing facilities, and customers rely on local fluid system expertise through nearly 200 authorized sales and service center locations around the globe. Swagelok’s values shape its dedication to customers, associates, and the community, and the company is consistently recognized for workplace excellence.