3D Printer Policy

The Library's 3D printer is available to the public to make three-dimensional objects in plastic using a design that is uploaded from a digital computer file.

1. The Library's 3D printer may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use the Library's 3D printer to create material that is:
   1. Prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
   2. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others.
   3. Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment.
   4. In violation of another's intellectual property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.
2. The Library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
3. Cost: 3D printing at the Library is currently free, thanks to a grant from the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.
4. Items printed from the Library 3D printer that are not picked up within 14 days will become the property of the Library. They must be picked up by the individual who printed them.
5. Only designated Library staff and volunteers will have hands-on access to the 3D printer.

Procedure for Submitting a Design

1. Patrons must have a current Commerce Library card to submit print requests.
2. Patrons wanting to use the 3D printer shall bring their file (in.stl or G Code file format) (no larger than 7 MB) to the Commerce Library. Staff will add the model to the printing queue.
3. If there is high demand, the Library will schedule only one print per month per person or entity.
4. Before printing, the Library will view all files in authorized software.
5. A limit of three pieces per print job.
6. Wait/pickup time: Items may be picked up at Rosewood Library. It is sometimes difficult to estimate exact print times. Library staff will make an educated guess about the length of a job upon request.
7. Patrons must fill out a 3D Submission Form for all designs. Visit Rosewood Library to fill out a form, or download the 3D Submission form.

Please note that procedures governing the use of the Library's 3D printers are subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What kind of printer does the library use?
   • The Commerce Library has a Bambu Lab H2D Full Laser Combo. It produces models from PLA filament, which is a type of thermoplastic made from plant sources.
2. What are the dimensions of the 3D printer?
   • The 3D model must fit within the Bambu Lab H2D print surface, which is 350x320x325mm.
3. Where can I download free 3D models?
   • You can search for pre-existing models on the internet to print as they are, or to modify using 3D modeling software. Explore models at makerworld.com or Thingiverse.com