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Illinois library dedicates space to Indian American Sam Gunda
Named after engineer and entrepreneur Satyanarayana Gunda, the space aims to promote creativity, exploration and skill-building for all ages.
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Staff Reporter - Fri, 29, May 2026
- 16:24 EDT
- 47
Satyanarayana “Sam” Gunda. / addisonlibrary.org
The Addison Public Library in Illinois has dedicated a new makerspace in honor of Indian-American entrepreneur and community advocate Satyanarayana “Sam” Gunda.
The space called Sam’s Lab will be inaugurated on May 31 as part of the library’s grand reopening celebration.
The new makerspace commemorates Gunda, an engineer, business owner, mentor and longtime Addison resident whose contributions to technology, education and community service left a lasting impact on the village.
Gunda died in October 2020 but remains widely remembered in the community for his commitment to creating opportunities for others.
Library officials said Sam’s Lab is intended to carry forward Gunda’s belief that learning, creativity and opportunity should be available to everyone, serving as a lasting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to education, innovation and community service.
Born in India, Gunda arrived in the United States on Oct. 12, 1971, as a graduate student in electrical engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology. His wife, Seetha, and daughter, Indira, joined him the following year. The family moved to Addison in 1975, where Gunda built both a professional career and a reputation as a civic leader.
After completing his studies, Gunda worked in the telecommunications industry and became a licensed professional engineer in Illinois. In 1981, he founded Digital World, a computer sales and service business in Addison that became a fixture in the community.
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Through his business, Gunda provided jobs and internships to students from Addison Trail High School who were interested in pursuing careers in technology. His belief that technology should be accessible and empowering for everyone would later become one of the guiding principles behind Sam’s Lab.
Gunda was also deeply involved in public service. He volunteered with the Addison Police Department, served on the Addison Park District Citizen Advisory Committee, delivered meals to seniors through Meals on Wheels, tutored Spanish-speaking children, mentored local students and supported numerous community initiatives.
His connection to the Addison Public Library was particularly strong. He was an active library supporter and ran for library trustee, advocating for expanded services, increased internet access for residents and stronger partnerships between the library, schools and local organizations.
Beyond Illinois, Gunda extended his philanthropy to his native India. He helped build a school and establish a healthcare center in Yendapally, the village where he was born, reflecting his belief that educational and economic opportunities should be available to all.
In his later years, Gunda developed a passion for endurance sports. After turning 60, he completed marathons in Chicago, London, New York and Antarctica, and founded the Addison Running Club. He later became active in cycling, leading rides with the Elmhurst Bicycle Club.
Library officials said Sam’s Lab was created to reflect Gunda’s lifelong commitment to curiosity, learning and innovation. The makerspace will provide community members with access to creative technologies and hands-on learning opportunities.
The facility will feature equipment including a laser cutter, embroidery machine, Cricut Maker and Venture machines, and sublimation and white-toner printing technology. Throughout May and June, the library will host weekly equipment demonstrations, allowing visitors to learn about the tools and receive guidance from staff. No registration is required for the demonstrations.
Additional programming planned for the makerspace includes Teen Maker Mondays during June and July, introductory design workshops using Canva, Cricut training sessions and other hands-on creative activities.
The library’s grand reopening celebration on May 31 will also feature a Summer Reading Kickoff Party with family-friendly activities, including a magic show, balloon artists, face painting, treats and giveaways. Library cardholders will have the opportunity to enroll in the summer reading program during the event.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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