Library's 3D printer adds new dimension

Whitman County Rural Library is getting the word out about the district's new 3D Printer.

Over the summer the library district was able to purchase a 3D printer with a grant from Innovia Foundation.

Innovia, formerly Inland Northwest Community Foundation, works with non-profits and communities in eastern Washington and northern Idaho for community improvement.

The printer cost $2,500, plus the cost of training provided by the manufacturer.

The printer is a Replicator+ from Makerbot, a leader in the 3D printer industry.

The library decided to purchase from the same company that sold a 3D printer to the school district so students will have access to a machine outside of school.

“The Technology is pretty new and basic,” said James Morasch, computer systems administrator at the library, “We're just at the start of usability.”

Morasch feels that libraries are “equalizing institutions” where anyone has access to programs and technologies they might not be able to afford otherwise. The 3D printers are expensive, but having one at the library opens up options for residents.

“We've been talking about getting a 3D printer for a couple years,” Morasch said. They had to wait until there was a grant opportunity before they could proceed.

Morasch has been teaching classes at the connected libraries throughout the district and feels there has been good attendance.

The library in Colfax will host a 3D class Wednesday, Nov. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m. for anyone to attend and learn more about the technology.

Morasch has been with the library for 18 years and has seen a lot of technology come through, but this is the first time he's worked with 3D printers.

There have been some interesting prints done so far. Morasch has printed an already linked chain, as well as a goblet that could hold his weight standing on top of it.

There are examples of 3D prints on display at the Colfax branch of the library.

Whitman County Library uses a biodegradable thermoplastic called PLA filament for their prints.

The library has been able to do some print jobs for the public, but is still getting the word out about this new opportunity.

Prints cost a dollar per print plus ten cents per gram of material but they cannot do print jobs that exceed 9.9x7.8x5.9 inches.

Patrons are responsible for their own designs for the 3D printer.

To build a print for the 3D printer a person would first have to design the print. There are various sites that can be utilized. Thingverse, Tinkercad and Vectary are some sites to help a person get started or work on their designs.

Designed prints are sent to 3Dprint@whitco.lib.wa.us to be converted to a file readable to the printer and get it printed. Prints can take some time depending on their size so be sure to communicate with the library.

Printing will be done on weekdays before 4 p.m., and the results can be picked up during regular library hours.