3D Printer

We are excited to announce, at our Cambridge Branch, that our 3D printer is available for public requests. The 3D printer and related resources provide equipment, advice, and inspiration to patrons of all ages. Allowing them to take production into their own hands and bring their imagination to life. Whether you’re an engineer, table top player, designer, cosplayer, or just plain ol’ curious, you’ll find resources here to help you realize your projects.

At the moment, we have one 3D printer (affectionately named Prometheus) available for patron use. Patrons may submit files to be printed, which they can pick up later. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Click the “Get Started” button below, and read the 3D Printer policies on the next page.

2. Fill out the form and submit it. Make sure to include the approximate size of the object and other specific customizations you require. If you have created your own object, or you have purchased and downloaded a file, please submit your request by email to the information desk at infodesk@dorchesterlibrary.org.

3. A library staff member will contact you to go over your project and give you a cost estimate to print it. 3D prints are priced at $0.10 per gram of plastic in the final project, including any printed support materials, rounded to the nearest $0.25. Once you’re ready, we’ll start printing your file.

4. A library staff member will contact you again when your item is ready.

5. Stop into the Cambridge Branch location to pick up your finished item!

Please read our 3D Printer policies before submitting. Because of how the layering process works to create a 3D print and the porous nature of the PLA, 3D prints are the ideal nesting ground for bacteria. We do not recommend using 3D prints in conjunction with food items. We, also, do not recommend boiling or putting 3D prints in/near hot temperatures because the plastic will likely deform.

For more resources, including sites to obtain 3D print files, please visit our Recommended Resources page. If you have any questions, please contact the info desk at infodesk@dorchesterlibrary.org or call us at 410-228-7331.