The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County just installed its first 3D printer in the TechCenter at the Main Library. The printer, which uses plastic filament to build objects layer by layer, can print just about any object that can be designed.
The printer is just one step in the public library’s efforts to give members access to current technology and develop the maker culture in the region.
“We’re planning to have maker spaces, along with 3D printers, at our new Reading and St. Bernard locations; this is a way for us to test the concept out,” says Maelynn Foster Hudson, marketing communications strategist for the library. “As a library, we’ve always been about more than just books—it’s about connecting people with a world of ideas and information.”
The printer is located on the second floor of the Main Library’s South building. TechCenter staff will be on hand to assist new and experienced users with their projects. In addition, there are several premade designs that can be downloaded and printed.
Websites such as
Thingiverse provide design-ready objects for printing. Customers can simply save the custom or selected design on a flash drive, bring it to the Main Library and talk to a TechCenter staff member for assistance with printing it.
“Soon, we’ll also offer programming around the use of the 3D printer, such as how to create and patent designs,” Foster Hudson says. “We want people to come in with ideas and we’ll help them to materialize them. That’s why we offer things like computers at all of our branches; it’s about growth, innovation and meeting our customers’ needs.”
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