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The Library desires to offer community access to new and emerging technologies such as 3D printers to inspire a new interest in design and help the community to bring their ideas to life.

About the 3D Printer

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.

  • 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.

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, .obj, or .3mf file format.
  • Library members must design, scan, image, create or download their own models for use on the 3-D printer; library staff is available for assistance only.
  • Our printer can accommodate items up to 8” x 6” x 6”.
  • Files will be printed as submitted unless a size change is requested.
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, specialty filament, or want a print that exceeds two hours you may contact the Computers and Technology department (847) 681-7032 or newmeddept@hplibrary.org) to discuss a special print 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.
  • 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.