3D Printing at Cannon Library

What would you make?

The MakerBot Replicator+ 3D printer is available to library cardholders to make three-dimensional objects in plastic (environmentally friendly) using a design that is exported from the MakerBot Print software.

Getting Started:

1. Be prepared to spend some time learning. 3D printing involves some trial and error experiences.
2. Review the Usage Policy (included below).
3. Design in the library or at home.
4. Select or design the CAD object to be printed.
5. Prepare it for printing with MakerBot Print Software.
6. Save it to a USB drive.
7. Print the object.

Usage Policy:
The library's 3D printer may be used only for lawful purposes.
Don't print items:

• Prohibited by local, state, or federal law
• Are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others.
• Are obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment
• In violation of another's intellectual property rights (copyright, patent, or trademark)

Availability:

• 3D printing at the library is currently free. 
• A staff member will train individuals age 15 and older on how to use the 3D printers and software. Training is one on one with a staff member for certification. (More than one person can be trained at once as well.)
• Patrons trained to use the 3D printers may print 10 hours a week resetting the time every Monday. Patrons wanting to print more than 10 hours per week will need to provide their own MakerBot PLA Filament that is approved by a staff member.
• Two 3D printers are available for use within the library’s operating hours. One is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The other may be reserved for use at a specific time. Please only reserve the amount of time needed to complete your print during our library's operating hours.
• File drop-off is available for future printing by contacting the library. There must be at least 1 business day in advance for reservation of the 3D printer.
• When requesting to print at the library, patrons must leave their contact information along with a time estimate of their print. (Name, phone number, print time estimate.)

3D Printer Software & Printing Parameters:

• Files can be downloaded and prepared in the MakerBot Print software at the library or brought to the library on a flash drive.
• Files must be prepared in the MakerBot Print software and have the .makerbot file extension to print. 
• Printed objects must be smaller than 11.6" x 7.6" x 6.3"
• Individuals must remain with the printer for the first 15% of the print job, whichever option is less.
• Jobs that appear to be failing will be canceled to save filament resources and patron use

Resources:
The following free software is available for use in the library or can be downloaded on a personal computer.

• Find it on Thingiverse! (www.thingiverse.com) Eager to get started with the 3D printer, but not sure where to begin? Visit MakerBot Thingiverse, which is a 3D design community where you can discover, download, and print over 100,000 free 3D models.
• Prepare and print it with MakerBot Print Software! (www.makerbot.com/3d-printers/apps/makerbot-print) MakerBot Print is the software specifically designed for the library's MakerBot Replicator+. This free yet powerful tool works in tandem with your favorite 3D design software to create watertight, ready-to-print 3D models.
• Design with SketchUp! (https://www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-free) SketchUp is free 3D modeling software that's easy to learn and incredibly fun to use. Start by drawing lines and shapes. Push and pull surfaces to turn them into 3D forms. Stretch, copy, rotate and paint to make anything you like.

Many instructional videos are available on YouTube.