3D printing services are temporarily suspended while the library is under renovation. 3D printing services will resume when the building at 238 E. Alder Street reopens, currently expected Summer 2027.

The information and resources below apply to multiple types of 3D printing, and are free for anyone to use.

What Can 3-D Printers Make? 

A 3D printer can manufacture almost any item that can be created from hard materials. The producers of the James Bond movie Skyfall printed a 1:3 scale Aston Martin that they then destroyed for a scene in the film. People who love photography are experimenting with making different kinds of camera lenses. Musical instruments like acoustic guitars and flutes have been printed. One use parents and educators enjoy is having a child draw a picture and then using a 3D printer to bring the image to life. Even fabric and clothing items have been created using 3D printers. Anything that can be modeled in 3D modeling software can be printed with a 3D printer.

Design Resources

Design Software

We recommend Tinkercad, a free, web-based 3D design tool for beginner designers that includes lessons and short tutorials on available features. You will need a valid email address to sign up.

You can also try SketchUp and Blender. Both require downloading the free software.

Free STL Files

You can get free designs from Thingiverse, an online community for 3D printing. Search by keyword or browse collections and categories for design options. The STL files are available for download.

For Other General Information about 3D Printing:  

3D Printing Basics: Free Beginner's Guide 

The Ultimate Guide to 3D Printing - 101 Questions Answered 

History of 3D Printing

For information on How to Clean Your 3D Prints :