Library Information and Policies

3D Printing at Parkland College Library

Policy

The library’s Makerbot Replicator 2 and Replicator+ 3D printers are available for use by library patrons. 

Patrons can access this equipment, based on the following criteria:

1. The user is a current Parkland Library patron in good standing.
2. The user shall schedule a time to use equipment in advance.
3. The user must demonstrate knowledge or prior experience with equipment, or arrange for training.  Training may be provided by a library specialist, or an instructor with sufficient knowledge.
4. Library staff reserves the right to deny usage based on availability or failure to meet the terms and conditions set forth by the library.

Conditions of Use:

1. The 3D printers may only be used with the appropriate printing material provided by the Library.
2. Users may not create objects that are considered harmful, dangerous, and obscene or in violation of any copyright, patent, trademark, or Parkland College policy.  Library staff reserves the right to determine if a print is inappropriate.
3. Users must comply with the Parkland College Computer Use Policy 3.40.
4. Charges for damage will be billed to the user.

To schedule a 3D printing session:

1. Approved users may schedule a 2 hour session by contacting a Library staff member or calling the library at 217/373-3839.
2. The library charges a nominal fee for the amount of material/filament used: $0.10 per gram for the finished print.  
3. Payment is due at time of pick up.  We are only able to accept cash or check payments.
4. If you have any further questions or would like assistance, please inquire at the Library's Main Desk.

The cost is $0.10 per gram for the finished print. Examples of weight below.

To send a "print job" to the 3D printer, you have to have a ".stl" file. Many of these have already been created and are free to download.

These are sources of ready-made designs. You might find exactly what you need, or just use these as a way to get your feet wet in the world of 3D printing.

You may be required to create an account. Many files are free to use, but some may charge to download.

If you want to create your own designs, here are some free tools to get you started.

You may be required to create an account.