About the 3D Printer

The Library offers access to 3D printing to support learning, creativity, and hands on exploration.

• 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:
  • Prohibited by local, state or federal law.
  • Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer.)
  • Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment.
  • In violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printer can not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent or trademark protection.
• Use of the 3D printer is at the discretion of the Library’s staff. The Library reserves the right to deny use of the equipment.
• Only Highland Park Public Library cardholders with a library account in good standing may submit designs for 3D printing.
• The Library does not guarantee a successful print. Unless the print fails to finish, the cost of the completed print, regardless of quality, will still be charged.
• Only designated library staff and volunteers will have hands-on access to the 3D printer.
• The Library is not responsible for the subsequent safety of any item made with the 3D printer.

3D Printing Procedure

Only Highland Park Public Library cardholders with a library account in good standing may submit designs for 3D printing.
View additional details regarding the 3D Printer Policy here.

Design creation:

• The 3D printer can be used with basic knowledge of Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD). Creating a new design requires an advanced knowledge of 3D modeling software products. Any 3D drafting software may be used to create a design as long as the file can be saved in .stl or .obj format.
• Library members must design, scan, create or download their own models for use on the 3D printer; library staff is available for assistance only.
• The printer supports objects up to 8 inches by 6 inches by 6 inches.

Submitting a design for printing:

• Library members wanting to use the 3D printer must fill out this online 3D print submission form. Staff will add the model to the printing queue.
• Each card holder is allowed 2 hours of free printing time per week, although you may request up to 8 hours of print time for a fee.
• Prints will be made using environmentally friendly PLA filament in the color the library has in stock at the time of printing. If you need a specific color or a print that exceeds two hours, contact Media Services at (847) 681-7032 or newmeddept@hplibrary.org to discuss your request. The Library cannot guarantee specific colors will be available.
• Staff review and prepare all project files, so please submit appropriate objects.
• Staff reserve the right to refuse to print any item.
• The typical processing time is 2-3 weeks. You will be notified if the printing time will exceed more than 3 weeks. 

The final product:

• You will be notified by phone or email when your print is complete.
• 3D printed objects can be collected at the Computers & Technology desk.
• You must collect your 3D print within 30 days of the notification date. After 30 days, the object will no longer be available and will be forfeited.
• The library is not responsible for failed 3D prints, although we will do our best to assist in completing successful 3D prints.
• Please note that procedures governing the use of the Library’s 3D printers are subject to change.