Clark Memorial Library’s 3D printing services are intended to provide equitable access to an emerging technology, while ensuring safe, lawful, and ethical use of the 3D printing resources in order to encourage innovation and digital literacy.
There is a $1.50 base fee for use of the 3D printer, and prints cost an additional 5 cents per gram of filament used. These fees cover the cost of replacing the filament and maintaining the 3D printer, and may change as the price of filament changes.
Access to the 3D printer is available to all cardholders with accounts in good standing, with the following caveats:
- First-time users must complete a mandatory 30-minute orientation session before scheduling time for individual use of the printer.
- Children 12 and under must have a parent or caretaker present while the 3D printer is in use.
- Access to the 3D printer is available on a first come, first served basis.
Use of the Library’s 3D printing services is at the discretion of Library staff. The Library reserves the right to restrict or deny access to the 3D printer, and to reject 3D prints of items that fall into any of the following categories:
- Items that violate local, state, or federal laws.
- Items deemed obscene or inappropriate for a public environment.
- Items that violate or infringe upon a copyright, trademark, or other proprietary right (without proof of ownership or license).
- Items intended to harm or attempt to harm a person or animal in any way, including functional firearms or firearm components (per 18 USC 922).
The Library does not guarantee a successful print. Files will be printed as submitted – patrons should ensure that custom files are properly designed and edited, and that pre-made files are compatible with both the 3D printer and its associated software. Minor imperfections and loss of fine detail in the final print when compared to the original file are to be expected.
Larger and more elaborate objects take longer to print, and patrons should ensure that there is enough time for their file to finish printing during Library hours. The 3D printer’s associated software provides an estimated time to completion prior to printing that can be used as a guideline; users will be introduced to this feature during the orientation session prior to their first use of the printer.
The Library is not responsible for the safety of any item made using its 3D printing services once it has been printed and removed from the premises.
An overview of the Library’s approach to its 3D printing services and information about the printer itself are available on the 3D Printing Services page of the Library’s website.