Overview
Clark Memorial Library is excited to begin offering 3D printing services in 2025!
Our intent is 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.
Our DaVinci 1.0 Pro 3D printer can print using either PLA (Polylactic Acid) or ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) filament, and has a maximum printing area of 20 x 20 x 20 cm (about 7.8 x 7.8 x 7.8 inches). It prints objects in a single color; available filament colors are limited and may vary. Patrons are not permitted to use their own filament in the 3D printer or change the filament being used without the permission and oversight of a member of Library staff.
Policies
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.
Larger and more elaborate objects take longer to print, and we ask that patrons ensure that there is enough time for their file to finish printing during Library hours. Object files will be deleted after prints are complete for confidentiality purposes.
The Library reserves the right to restrict or deny access to the 3D printer, and to reject 3D prints that are inappropriate or obscene, potentially harmful, or in violation of copyright or other proprietary rights. Our full 3D Printer Policy is available on the Library Policies page of the Library’s website.
Procedures
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.
Patrons who want to print an object on the 3D printer should follow the following steps:
- Attend an orientation session if they have not already done so.
- Create or download a 3D object file in .STL or .3W format.
- Email the file to the Library at clarkmain@bethanylibrary.org or bring the file in on a thumb drive. The Library can provide a thumb drive if a patron does not have their own.
- Once the file has been approved by Library staff, upload the file to the 3D printer’s associated laptop and print the object!
Feel free to call the Library at 203-393-2103 with any questions!
Resources
Thingiverse – A database containing thousands of free 3D object files, recommended to patrons looking for ready-to-print object files or templates to customize.
Cura – A free, open-source 3D printing program compatible with most 3D printers, recommended to patrons who work with 3D printers outside the context of the Library.
Tinkercad & SketchUp Free – Free 3D design programs, recommended for patrons interested in customizing existing 3D object files or creating new ones from scratch.