FROM THE HARTFORD COURANT

HARTFORD — While some people may think of a newspaper vending machine with nostalgia, MakerspaceCT has a whole new use for the old metal boxes: refurbishing them to create mini libraries and food pantries for a Hartford neighborhood.

MakerspaceCT, a community workshop and skills development center on Main Street, partnered with the Free Center, which provides access to space and support for organizing and programs in the old the Goodwin Library at 460 New Britain Ave, on the project.

“Like any other project that comes through here, there was no hesitation in my staff to step up and help out,” said Mark Colbert, chief operations officer for MakerspaceCT. “It’s a feel-good project and everyone that works here understands the value,” Colbert added.

The old newspaper honor boxes were transformed into “read and feed centers” and placed in front of the Free Center, where non-perishable food items and gently used books are available for anyone in need.