3D Printing
Create your own beautiful designs using the 3D printer at the library.
What is 3D Printing?
3D Printing is an additive manufacturing process. This means it works by building an object layer by layer. There are lots of different types of 3D printers that work in a variety of materials, from human tissue to chocolate. The most popular ones use plastic or resin. At Caldwell Public Library, our Prusa MK3 printers use plastic - usually PLA (Polylactic Acid). When we print in plastic it's a lot like drawing with a hot glue gun. The printer melts the plastic and extrudes it through a small nozzle, building it layer by layer.
How do I print something at the library?
We have a few different ways for you to 3D print something at the library:
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Book a free 3D printing consultation with a staff member to set something up to print. We recommend setting up a consultation if this is your first time 3D printing at the library or if you are unsure if your design will be compatible with our printers. Fill out this form to request a consultation:
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Send us your 3D print in .stl or .obj format. Click Here or scroll to the bottom of this page to fill out our submission form and upload your 3D print file.
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Schedule time to operate the printers yourself after completing 4 training sessions.
Need help getting started?
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Download our 3D Printing Guide to discover tips, tricks, and resources.
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View our 3D printing policy.
Questions? Email library@caldwellpubliclibrary.org or call 208-614-5132.