3D Printing Comes To Cobb County Libraries

MARIETTA -- The Cobb County Public Library has four MakerBot-class Replicator 5G 3D printers. They're located at the Switzer Library and three regional libraries: Mountain View Regional Library, South Cobb Regional Library, and West Cobb Regional Library.

How much does it cost? 3D Printing is currently 15 cents per gram of filament used in the printing process, with a minimum charge of $2.50.

What can be printed? All printing is done with PLA, a bioplastic made of corn. It is not recommended to print anything that needs to be heat resistant or super strong. It is possible to make the model a little bit stronger by making its walls thicker or requesting more infill. Ask librarians about it and they will try to help out.

What cannot be printed? Due to demand and limited resources, the library will not print any job that will take over two hours. If there is something that would take longer than that, librarians are happy to help figure out how to break up the model into smaller jobs, scale the print, or refer to one of the many paid 3D printing services. The library retains the right to refuse any print request for any reason.

Who can operate the printer? Only library staff will have hands-on access to the 3D printers. Find a complete list of 3D printing policies here.

How To Get The Object Printed

• Download an object file from a site like Thingiverse or Cubehero or use free modeling software like SketchUp, Blender and Mineways to create designs.
• If possible, export your object as a .makerbot file. Need help with the conversion? Just bring your file on a flash drive to one of our friendly librarians for assistance!
• Note: The library will print your file as is. If you need help optimizing or troubleshooting, just ask for help before submitting.

• Save your 3D printing file on an USB flash drive.
• Come into the library during open hours. Submit your flash drive, and a 3D Print Request Form to library staff. Staff or volunteers will help you make sure the model is ready for printing and ensure that it can be printed within our two hour limit. It is recommended that patrons create a backup of the project print file before submitting their flash drives.

PLEASE NOTE: “complete” does not always mean “successful.” The library will still notify when the print is done even if it does not come out perfectly. Re-prints will only be available in the event of machine malfunction. Failed prints due to errors within the 3D model will still be charged for materials used.
• Prints can be collected during regularly scheduled library hours.

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Image Cobb County Library System