Glen Ellyn Public Library makes 3D printers available for use by the public to support the ever-changing and constantly evolving technology needs of the community. 3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, means making things layer by layer according to a 3D design file. Glen Ellyn Public Library makes 3D printers available to members of the public to make three-dimensional objects in plastic using a design that is uploaded from a digital computer file.
The library’s 3D printers may be used only for lawful purposes. They may not be used to create weapons or materials that
- Are prohibited by local, state, or federal law
- Are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or which pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others
- Are inappropriate for the library environment
- Violate another person’s property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce objects or materials that are subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection
All 3D printing requests must fulfill the library’s requirements
- The print file submitted must be sent in .stl format.
- Only one print request per person will be accepted and printed at a time.
- Submissions by one person must not exceed one request per every two weeks.
- The print object must be smaller than 11.2 L x 6.0 W x 6.1 H in inches. Requests for multiple units or larger scale items may require a donation in order to print. Costs will be determined on a print-by-print basis.
3D printing is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is coordinated by Glen Ellyn Public Library staff. Priority printing will be given to library programs and events.
Library staff will review every object file before it is printed, and the library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request. The nature of 3D printing does not allow complete cardholder privacy, but the library will not share information about a cardholder’s legal activities with third parties. The printer will only print an object in a single color. Color preferences may be submitted, but the library will determine the color of the filament based on availability. Library staff reserve the right to resize projects unless dimensions are specific in the request.
Print jobs take an average of two weeks to complete. Due to the amount of time it takes to print an object, the number of requests received and staff availability, the library will not guarantee that a print job will be ready on a specific day.
The library is not responsible for failed 3D prints, although we will do our best to assist in completing successful 3D prints.
Glen Ellyn Public Library will not be liable for functional failure of, or injuries or property damage caused by objects or materials made with 3D printers. The library strongly recommends that 3D printers not be used to make things that could prove harmful, or that would result in significant cost to the user if they fail.