Middle Country Public Library

Podcasting: The Show

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Whenever you’re creating content you will most likely work in three stages; pre-production, production and post production. The same goes for podcasting. Pre-production is the time you take to plan out your podcast. If you are just starting you are going to need to decide a few things to get the ball rolling but you can always tweak and change over time as you get into a flow.

The first two things you need to do is decide what kind of podcast you’d like to create and who is going to be on the podcast. One decision may influence the other and like we said before, this can change. However, before you buy any equipment or begin recording you should know this much.
Some types of podcasts are; The Interview, have guests on your shows, maybe other librarians, or patrons or even people from other libraries. The solo podcast, as the name implies it’d just be on solo podcaster, this might be something your patrons would be interested. A conversational show, you’ll have multiple contributors, you can all discuss one topic or they can each bring a topic to discuss. If this is a library podcast you can talk about what’s coming up in each department, reviews of movies, books, music, current issues in your community or the library world, the list goes on. These are only a few, there are many other types, including fictional audio storytelling, another one that may be interesting for your patrons. You can mix and match these and depending on who in your library is interested in being on the podcast you may choose one format over another.
Once you have an idea of the format you’d like to try out decide on how long you want your podcast to be and at the same time how often you want to upload your podcast. For the amount of time it takes to record and edit we suggest, for a library focused podcast, to shoot for about a twenty to twenty-five minute episode and try to upload weekly. We find the length of this podcast is good for an average commuter and we can manage to edit and upload an episode every week on top of our other responsibilities.
If you decide on a longer form type of podcast you may run longer and in that case may only want to upload bi-weekly or even monthly, depending on your topic and the amount of content in each episode. Whichever you decide, just make sure you are as consistent as possible. If you decide on 20-25 minutes episodes, weekly, released on Thursdays, try to stick to that schedule as best you can. Consistency will help you build and keep your audience.

Lastly, before you begin production, have outlines for several episodes. You don’t need a full script but know what you will discuss. Doing this ahead of time will let you know if you selected a format that will generate enough content. You may find you need to go back and adjust your format, add other hosts or book more guests. Once you get into a flow you may not need to plan as far out but in the beginning have as much prepared as possible. Depending on the time sensitivity of your content you can record several episodes in one sitting and edit them and have them ready to upload well in advance.

Materials for 3D Printing

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Just like a standard paper printer, you will always need to purchase materials and supplies for your 3D printer — whether fused deposition modeling (FDM) or stereolithography (SLA/resin). There are so many different kinds of materials for 3D printing out there.

FDM printers use spools of filament. This filament is generally plastic-based, and gets melted and printed out to create a design. There are some filaments that are more popular than others:

• PLA (polylactic acid): this corn-based filament is the most commonly used in FDM printing, and is recommended when starting out on a 3D printer. PLA is easy to use and doesn’t necessarily require a heated print surface. It provides good detailing on a 3D print as well, is good for parts. PLA is also used for food products, but not be great for eating. It can also be a little brittle, so it’s not recommended for designs that need to be very sturdy. It doesn’t hold up well to sunlight or heat exposure.
• PET, or PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate-Glycol): PET, or PETG can be beneficial for a wide range of designs. PETG is sturdy and durable, and holds up well to heat and chemicals. It is also water resistant. However, PETG can be “stringy” — that is, as a design prints, you might see thin strings of filament on your object. These can be taken off, or melted with a heat gun, but sometimes cause minor issues in printing.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene): ABS is almost as commonly used in 3D printing as PLA, but might not be the best for libraries. While ABS is strong and provides a smooth print, it also omits a strong smell and requires control over the temperature of the 3D printer and its surrounding area. If you do use ABS, especially in an enclosed space, be sure to filter out the fumes.
• Nylon: Nylon filament is incredibly durable and strong, and is great for prototyping and making hinged and functional parts. Nylon prints white, but can absorb color with different dyes. However, nylon also absorbs water, and must be kept completely dry. Nylon-based prints need to be completely dry before they are used. Nylon also requires a high temperature — 250 degrees — and not every nozzle can get that hot.
• PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol): PVA is a support filament that prints clear or with a slightly yellow tint. This filament is mostly used when using more than one extruder for printing (for more information, please see All About FDM 3D Printers). PVA is excellent for 3D designs that need a lot of supports — like a design that is very detailed — as it’s water-soluble and melts away with warm water, leaving little to no trace on the design.
• Composite filaments: There are several filaments on the market that aren’t only made of plastic. Composite filaments are designed to look like stone, wood, metal, clay, and other objects. Oftentimes these filaments contain powdered elements of the object they are meant to look like.

Tips & Tricks for FDM Filament
• It is important to know the melting temperature for any and all filaments and adjust your printer accordingly when loading and unloading filament, and preheating for printing
• Keep all of your filament stored out of light and sun, and ideally in an airtight container. However, the bag or box your filament came in is fine as well. Leaving your filament sitting out exposes it to light and moisture, and can damage and degrade the material.
• When preparing your filament for loading into a printer, always cut it at an angle
• Consider having a spot on your website that easily and briefly explains to patrons what each filament does.
• You might want to price each filament differently, depending on cost.

SLA/Resin printers work differently from FDM, and thus require a different material. Instead of spools of filament, resin cartridges are used. Resin is excellent for molds and prototyping, but also provides excellent detail. Unlike plastic filament that comes in many colors, liquid resin is limited to shades like white, gray, black, and clear (a great option for a transparent print!). However, some SLA printer manufacturers have resin that can have pigment added for more colorful prints. Some manufacturers also make resin that is flexible, allowing you to make designs like stamps, or even parts of binoculars.

There are different types of resin available:
• Standard resin
• Pigmented resin
• Flexible resin
• Silicone resin

Introduction to 3D Printing

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Many libraries have adopted and adapted 3D printing services and have found great success in bringing their communities new and exciting technology. If you’re just getting started, this guide is for you! This guide will define 3D printing; go over the basics of getting started and understanding your machine; explain some problems you might encounter and how to solve them; and how to tailor 3D printing to suit the needs of your library and its community. 

What is 3D printing? 

3D printing is an additive fabrication or building process. An object is built by adding layers of material upon one another. As those layers come together, they often form a slightly hollow pattern in the middle of the design for stability. This creates a functional 3D object. Most of the time, these 3D objects are built by a combination of a 3D printer and computer software. The software is where a design can be created or downloaded, edited and be ready for printing. 

3D printing is traditionally used for prototyping, printing parts, or even creating fun designs. For libraries, 3D printing can benefit your community in a traditional or alternative way, and creates an excellent learning experience for nearly all ages.

What are the common types of 3D printing?

There are two main types of 3D printing: one is Stereolithography, or SLA. This process of 3D printing uses a light source to cure resin material. SLA 3D printing is great for prototyping and making watertight designs with high detail, and is used frequently in the dental and engineering fields. However, this type of 3D printing is slightly more advanced and costly, so you may want to introduce this into your library after you’ve gotten used to the second and most common type of 3D printing: Fused Deposition Modeling, or FDM. FDM has actually been around since the 80s, and what usually comes to mind when 3D printing is mentioned. FDM melts filament — usually a kind of plastic — and extrudes it out of a 3D printer to build all kinds of objects. There are many different brands and models of FDM 3D printers. You’ll have to research which brand would fit your budget and the needs of your library. Commonly purchased 3D printer brands include, but are not limited to:

  • Prusa
  • MakerBot
  • LulzBot Taz
  • XYZ Da Vinci
  • Ultimaker
  • Form Labs (Resin printers)

Regardless of which you choose, you will need specific equipment to ensure your 3D printer works properly.

What do you need for 3D printing?

A computer: You can use either a PC or Mac, a desktop or a laptop, depending on how and where you intend the 3D printer to be used.

Software: This is where you will see the 3D object you’re printing and be able to make changes before printing. You can make the design bigger or smaller, rotate it for different views, check for any mistakes, add supports/rafts/bridges, and print your design. A lot of 3D printers come with software but there are also free or low-cost, and open source options available as well. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Cura
  • TinkerCad (a web-based 3D design service)
  • SketchUp
  • Fusion360
  • And more! 

Materials & accessories: The most important accessory for a 3D printer is its material. The material most commonly used with 3D printers is filament. 3D printing filament comes in many forms, but mostly various types of plastic, and comes in so many colors! Some 3D printers support different types of mixed filament — e.g. a plastic filament that is mixed with wood particles, to create a wood-based design. For more information on these materials, please see Materials for 3D Printing.

Your printer should come with material samples, and there are several places online that sell all different kinds of materials. Be sure to research the different types of materials you might be interested in using with your printer so that you can be sure your designs print properly. 

A 3D object: Finally, you will need a 3D object file to print! The typical file types for 3D objects will be .STL and .OBJ, with STL being the most common. These files are readily available to be loaded into whichever software you use, and will either be saved onto an SD card or sent to your printer wirelessly (sort of like how a standard printer paper works) from a computer or laptop. When 3D designs are ready for print, they will need to be exported or saved as a GCode file — this file contains all of the print job’s correct movements. Some programs do this automatically, but others might have you manually export a file as a GCode. 

3D objects can be designed by you or your patrons in software like Fusion360, Sketchup, or TinkerCad — to name a few. Alternatively, you or your patrons can find 3D objects using websites like Thingiverse. Thingiverse and other sites are community-run repositories where users will upload 3D objects they have designed. These objects can be downloaded and loaded right into your software. Users who have made the design can post pictures of their printed object, and leave comments with any tips or tricks for printing. 

What are the main parts of a 3D printer?

The parts and pieces that make up a 3D printer will vary based on the type of printer. However, every 3D printer will come with a build plate, where the design is built. For more information on the parts of a 3D printer, please see our instructions on FDM and SLA printing.

How do you bring 3D printing to your community?

Providing a 3D printing service for your patrons can help show your community that libraries are always evolving and provide the perfect place to explore new technology. However, bringing a 3D printing service to your library involves research, discussion, and a lot of trial and error. In addition to which 3D printer and materials you will purchase, here are some things to consider:

  • Type of service: do you want to provide a print-on-demand 3D printing service, or do you want to focus on providing classes and tutorials for patrons, where a staff member will print out the jobs for the patrons. 
    • If you decide to offer an on-demand printing service, you will need to determine not only cost, but how you will communicate with the patrons about their job. Will they fill out a form to request a print? Who will email them? What is the policy for jobs that are not picked up? These are just a few questions to discuss.
  • Location of the 3D printer, or printers: will these printers be out on the public floor for patrons to view? If so, you will need an enclosure around your printer and a spot in your library where the sound will not bother your patrons.
  • Cost of service: many libraries charge per gram for filament, and per mL for resin; depending on the cost of your filament, you can charge anywhere from 5-20 cents per gram, with the resin likely costing a bit more
    • It might also be best to have your patrons pick up their finished 3D prints at your Circulation or similar desk so that they can easily pay for their job 
  • Staff: who will operate and maintain your 3D printer? This is actually the most important factor in your research stage. Your staff will have to be trained on every aspect of using the 3D printer, and be able to troubleshoot basic problems. You also want to be sure you have enough staff trained to meet the potential demand of your community.

Green Screen 101 for Libraries

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So many libraries are beginning to utilize green screen technology in their libraries, and you might be next! Having a green screen in your library opens up a fun world for patrons of all ages, and is a great way to engage your community in a fun way. There are several great options out there for bringing green screen technology to your library. First, let’s get a quick understanding of what’s behind the screen.

Green screen technology relies on a process called chroma key, and is fairly well-known around the world. It’s seen whenever we watch the weather, and in most TV shows and movies we watch. The chroma key process involves combining two separate digital pictures or video by removing a specific color from one image and turning that color transparent. In this case, the color that is being replaced is a bright green (and sometimes blue). Green is an excellent choice as it has very few to no common pigments with our own skin color. 

The only catch? Green clothing! Wearing green clothing in front of a green screen might leave you with just a floating head in a picture! 

Here is what you will need to get started with a green screen:

  • Bright green backdrop: these comes in various shapes, sizes, and fabrics
    • Many people are able to just hang green muslin from a wall
    • Many ready-made green screens come with strong stands and can be placed almost anywhere you need them.
  • DSLR camera or smartphone: either one will do the trick!
    • If you are using a DSLR camera, you will need a computer and software
    • Consider a tripod for stability, even for the smartphone
  • App or computer software: many green screen apps are sufficient for what a library needs, but there is some professional-level software available as well
    • Note that a good green screen app will cost money. There are free apps out there, but they might not get the job done as well
    • Some apps are only compatible with Apple devices
    • Many programs for a PC or Mac help to create a photobooth experience with a countdown and the ability for the patron to see themselves in a monitor so they can be sure they are posing correctly. You can also save the pictures taken directly to a computer for easy sharing.
  • Printer: if you would like to offer patrons the option to take their picture home, you will need an appropriate printer; a photo printer — wireless or wired — works great.
  • A fun selection of digital images on the chosen device to replace the green color
  • Lighting: Your area should be well-lit, either naturally or with additional stand lights 

Once you have all of your elements set up, the fun can begin! You can have patrons line up to have their picture taken, give them numbers, have a sign-up list — whatever is best for you. Have the patron(s) choose which digital background they would like, and get that loaded into the app or software, then reset your scene (pull the backdrop taut, smooth out wrinkles, etc.) and get ready to shoot. Before you take the picture, have the patrons get their poses ready, and give them a countdown if one is not included in your software. Get the picture printed or emailed and you’re done! 

Trips and Tricks for Your Green Screen Experience  

  • When hanging your backdrop, make sure it’s pulled taut, as wrinkle-free as possible, and completely covers the photo area. The flatter the green screen, the easier it is 
  • Have the camera far away enough to get everyone in the picture, but not so far away that space outside of the screen will be in the shot. 
  • If possible, remind patrons not to wear green, especially bright green, as it will be replaced by the background image. 
  • Save images to post on social media (with the patrons’ permission)!

Bringing Virtual Reality to your Library

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Virtual Reality is trending! This booming technology is becoming a hit in libraries, and you might want to consider bringing it to yours. Virtual Reality, or VR, has been around since the early ‘80s. It uses computer technology to create a three dimensional world in which users can interact in different ways. It can be used for gaming, education, entertainment, and more! Today, there is a wide range of VR systems available. These systems range from cardboard headsets powered by a smartphone, to large, intricate systems powered by a gaming computer. Each VR system will have different apps and games available. How you plan to use VR in your library will influence which system you purchase. 

First, you should get comfortable with some VR terms before you proceed:

Headset: a device that either contains a smartphone, self-contained, or connected to a PC. Also called “VR Goggles.” 

Tracking: used to monitor — or track — head and eye motion

Latency: an important factor in VR; latency is essentially the delay between a user’s motion or action and the response from the VR headset. The lower the latency, the better the picture and user experience. High latency can actually give a user a headache or make them dizzy.

Haptic Feedback: Generally only found in VR controllers, haptic feedback is a vibration or some sort of physical stimulation from a piece of VR technology. For example, if you reach out to touch something in a virtual environment, a controller might gently vibrate.

“Immersive Experience”: This term is used to indicate how deeply a VR system can bring users into the virtual world. This experience depends on picture quality, sound quality, and the level of user interaction in the virtual environment.

There are so many options for VR out there, and it’s good to research what will work best for you, your library, and your community. Factors to consider when researching VR can include:

  • Cost
  • Staff: who will learn how to use these devices, maintain them, and how many staff members will be trained in working with them
  • Space: is there enough room in your meeting room or floor for patrons to move around freely and without injury (remember that patrons cannot see where they are!)
  • Community interest: Consider surveying your community or talking to your regular patrons to gauge their interest level in VR. You might not want to invest in something expensive if there is only mild interest.

Here are just a few Virtual Reality device and system options:

Google Cardboard: The easiest and quickest way to bring VR to your library is with the Google Cardboard. Ultimately, all you need is a cardboard headset and a smartphone. You can actually make your own with unused cardboard, or buy one pre-made for $15. Once you have your headset, you download the accompanying Cardboard app to your phone. The smartphone then gets placed into your headset. While Google Cardboard is a great and inexpensive way to introduce VR to your community, keep in mind that the apps you use will not be great quality, and the picture is not as sharp. The latency is on the higher side. Your overall experience with the Cardboard will not be very immersive.

Merge: Merge is a system containing both VR and Augmented Reality (AR)* products, but they go a level above the Google Cardboard. The Merge products and system are great for education and children, but are also fun for adults. The system has its own headset and that is compatible with many newer smartphones. Merge also makes a foam cube that helps create an Augmented Reality experience for users. The company has created many different apps and games. The Merge Cube is a good, low-cost introduction to VR and AR, and can be used in programs, at outreach events, or other library events. However, like the Cardboard, the overall user experience will not be very immersive. 

 *If you’re unsure what AR is, think of the popular game Pokemon Go. AR combines the real and virtual worlds, essentially adding virtual objects to a real world view. 


Oculus Go and Quest: A step up from Cardboard and Merge, these two Oculus headsets are small but powerful VR devices. For headsets like these, there is a built-in store where you can download free or paid VR content right from the headset. These types of headsets provide a great VR experience without all of the equipment of the larger systems. The Oculus Go and similar systems usually come with a small controller so that the user can better interact with the virtual environment. These headsets are of high quality enough to provide a solid VR experience for you and your patrons. Because of their small size, they are great to bring on outreach events. You could even purchase a few and have patrons interact with one another in the virtual world! 

  • If you’re looking to stay in the Google ecosystem, Google Daydream is a great option

HTC Vive: One of the best full-VR systems out there. The Vive, like the Oculus Rift and PlayStation VR, provides a fully immersive VR experience. However, the Vive is expensive and does require a powerful graphics card, processor, and both an HDMI and DisplayPort. The Vive comes with:

  • Two controllers — so one for each hand
  • A comfortable headset, though it can get a little heavy
  • Two base stations that can be mounted on a wall or placed on tripods so that all of its parts can work together well. These base stations work together to track the Vive headset. If one station isn’t working, the Vive can’t be used because the items cannot be tracked. This is definitely a downside, but when the base stations work, the experience is great! 

Once hooked up to the proper PC, the Vive system can also be projected onto a screen so that everyone can see what the user is seeing inside the headset. This is great for programs, and even to bring onto your main floor if you don’t mind some noise. 

A Note About the Vive

It’s important to note that setting up the Vive can take a little bit of time, so if it’s something you’re considering, make sure that you have the proper amount of time dedicated to the set up before a program. You can also dedicate a space just to VR so that you can avoid setting it up each time. 

Games for the Vive

Unlike other VR options, the Vive specifically uses a gaming platform called Steam to run, and it will need to be installed on a PC. Steam itself is free, but many games are not. You can also browse Steam for VR games only and download and try some free ones to get the hang of the whole system. Steam will also do great sales on games, especially around the holidays, so be on the lookout for that. Part of the room setup for the Vive will be done in Steam, as they have specific software for Virtual Reality.

Tips for Steam Games

You will want to create a budget for your games so that you can purchase a selection to offer your patrons. We recommend purchasing games that will work for a wide variety of ages, and that don’t require a lot of skill. Some popular games are theBlu, Beat Saber, and Star Wars: Trial on Tattooine.


Be sure to research your VR options, and consider what would be best for your community.

Tips & Tricks for Virtual Reality in your Library

  • Don’t be afraid to try VR. You can start small, get your feet wet, and evolve your service from there. Speak with your patrons about what they are interested in as well.
  • Consider purchasing a separate smartphone meant for VR headsets and programs. You do not need to have a wireless service for this. 
    • It’s also important to note that the phones get very hot when in the headset, and overheating is a possibility if they are used for long periods of time.
  • Make a plan for how you intend to use VR. For example, will you run a series of drop-in programs or will you have people register for one-on-one sessions?
  • Consider usage for children — will children under the age of 8 be allowed to use VR, or will a parent or guardian’s permission be required? 
  • For something like the HTC Vive, it’s good to speak with your IT or Computer department to see if it is a viable option.

360 Video in Libraries

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With the popularity of digital media on the rise, especially in libraries, 360 degree video is a great, easy way to give your library a fun digital presence. Using a 360 camera for both still shots and video can make your library more accessible to the community. 


A 360 cameras allow you to film and take pictures of the world around you from every angle. You can take just one shot, or take multiple shots of a large space and stitch the images together. This can be done with various software, and many 360 degree camera manufacturers supply this themselves. Some 360 degree cameras are small and highly portable, while others are meant more for sitting on a desk or table, or mounted on a wall. For libraries, a portable camera might be a good option.

Many 360 degree cameras are equipped with multi-channel microphones, wireless LAN, Bluetooth capability, a tripod mount hole, the ability to switch camera modes, and more. These cameras also have an associated app that allows you to take video and pictures, import and export, as well as edit and upload to other video sharing websites. We recommend using the app to control the camera, as it gives you more control over taking videos or still shots, and also makes it easier to transfer and share content.

When searching for a 360 camera, you’ll want to consider:

  • Picture/Video Quality: high quality is best, and you’ll want a high resolution
  • Ease of use
  • Size: both of the device itself and its storage capacity
  • Battery life

You can treat your 360 degree camera as you would a standard camera, using accessories like a tripod and a case, and even an external microphone.

When you’re ready to shoot, simply use the associated app or the controls on the camera to start your 360 video or capture images. Hold the camera steady or put it on a tripod for extra stability. When you’re done, you’ll either view the capture images from your phone, or transfer them to a computer using a USB cable. If you want to take this a step further, you can capture images of your library, download software to stitch your images together and create a 360 tour of your library!

Tips for Using Your Camera

  • As with any camera, keep your camera steady as you film or shoot
  • If you are looking to stitch a series of still images together, be sure to take your time shooting, and use the provided manufacturer software

3D Scanning Basics

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If you are looking to expand your 3D printing services, or want to offer a comprehensive service right off the bat, you might want to consider offering 3D scanning. 3D scanning can provide you and your patrons with the ability to 3D print objects and items that might not be available through websites like Thingiverse or cannot be easily replicated in a CAD program and can also be useful in digitizing objects. You can even scan an object and put it in virtual reality!

About 3D Scanning Technology

Most 3D scanners use laser or structured light technology to digitally scan and form an object that can then be viewed, edited, and printed, but there are other ways to scan. However, all types of 3D scanning have a base method of scanning. During the 3D scanning process, tons of reference points are created at different locations, and then merged together to create the three-dimensional scan. 3D scanning is used predominantly in prototyping, reverse engineering, and digitizing. However, some patrons might find it useful if they are trying to replicate an object or part. For example — a part of a broken blind or shade.

Common 3D Scanning Techniques
• Structured light scanning: Uses white or LED light and a camera to scan. The light and camera work together to obtain multiple angles of the object, which you can then edit and piece together in its accompanying software.
• Laser scanning: Probably the most precise and detail-oriented process. Users small laser beams and a camera to find and scan objects. The camera finds the location of the laser beam, and takes images from there, merging them to create an editable object.
• Photogrammetry. This process uses a handheld camera to take images from different angles of the object, then stitches the images together. Photogrammetry can provide quick, accurate detailing, but the quality of the photos can be questionable, and sometimes considerable editing is required.

The types of 3D scanning used in libraries can vary. Here are just a few options:
• Mobile app: Yes, you might be able to 3D scan an object with just an app…and a piece of white printer paper. Mobile app scanning uses a 3D scanning process called While convenient and easy, it does not always yield quality or usable results. The piece of printer paper is necessary to get a clean scan. Generally a grid pattern is printed out onto the paper for a cleaner scan.
• Handheld scanner: A handheld 3D scanner allows the user to control its movements and area scanning. The scanner is connected directly to a laptop or desktop computer. The user will move the scanner around the entire object to capture all of its side, and can watch on the computer how well the object is being scanned. Handheld scanners provide good scans, and are convenient and easy to use. However, because a user is controlling the scanning process, they provide less accurate scans and only decent quality.
• Stationary scanner: Stationary scanners are more stable than handheld scanners, and provide accurate, detailed scans. Stationary scanners also connect to a laptop or desktop computer, and usually come with an attached tripod or arm that is fixed to the scanner itself, and a platform where the object is placed. This platform is either turned by the scanner or the user. Stationary scanners are not particularly mobile, and might not always capture every aspect of an object.

Most 3D scanner manufacturers provide software that will allow you to edit and save your file. A 3D scanned object is not necessarily going to scan perfectly, so it’s important to learn the features of this software to properly analyze and fix minor issues that occurred during the scanning process. There are also open-source programs available to help smooth out rough edges and fill in small holes in a 3D scanned file. Once you are satisfied with your file, you will be able to export it as an STL or OBJ and prepare it for printing.

Tips & Tricks for 3D Scanning

• 3D objects scan best in darkness and a white background, and in a place with little movement. If you’re looking to incorporate 3D scanning into your library, it’s good to know in advance where you might want to use your 3D scanner, and prepare that space.
• Dark and shiny objects can sometimes be difficult to scan. A dusting of white chalk on the entire object can help make these objects more visible.
• Prepare for a lot of trial and error! Be sure to check the forums and other communities for more detailed tips and tricks
• 3D scanning is great for digitizing older or even outdoor objects. It is a process that is used in museums, but could be useful for other libraries as well.
• It’s important to know that 3D scanning is not a perfect science. Not every object will scan properly, and scanning can take hours to complete. As always, be sure to research your options and be prepared for some major trial and error.

All About SLA 3D Printers

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While FDM is the most popular kind of 3D printing, SLA — or stereolithography — is becoming a popular choice for professionals, hobbyists, and libraries alike. This type of printing is great for prototyping, but can be useful to patrons looking to make their own tools and designs, or want a print that requires high detail or a smooth finish. These prints are also watertight, meaning that water cannot pass through the object.

SLA printing uses liquid resin and laser technology to build a 3D object, and requires a different process than FDM. Resin prints need to be washed with isopropyl alcohol, then cured using UV light. While resin printing is different from your standard 3D printing process, the software and design process are similar.

Did You Know? SLA was actually the first type of 3D printing technology!

Important parts of the resin printing process include:

Build plate: Also called a platform. This is where the design will be built, layer by layer. However, because resin printing involves a liquidized material, the printing process is different from the standard 3D printing process. The build platform is found at the top of the printer, and is moved up and down into a tank containing liquid resin, where the resin will harden.
Post-Processing: An integral part of a successful resin print is post-processing. A completed print will be placed into a tank containing isopropyl alcohol, a process that takes anywhere from 15-30 minutes. Once that process is complete, the object then cures in a separate UV light tank, which can take up to an hour depending on the object’s size and type of resin used for the print.
Material: Various types of liquid resin are used with an SLA printer.Resin is excellent for molds and prototyping, but also provides excellent detail. For more information, please see Materials for 3D Printing.
Resin cartridge holder: This is where your resin cartridges are placed. It’s important to follow instructions when installing a cartridge, so that the resin will flow properly to the tank.
Tank: Where the liquid resin will flow. This is where the build plate will go to start building the design. Resin tanks occasionally need to be replaced.
Information Screen: Most resin printers will have an interactive screen that you can use to print, reprint, or access settings.
Software: Most of the time you will be using the software that is recommended by the manufacturer of your printer. However, you may also elect to use alternate programs for printing. Please see Introduction to 3D Printing for Libraries for software recommendations.
Gloves: While it sounds simple, it is incredibly important to wear gloves when handling resin prints. After post-processing is complete, you may remove the gloves.

Tips & Tricks for SLA 3D Printing

• You will need a good scraper to remove the printed object from the build plate. It’s important to be gentle but forceful.
• Clean off your build plate immediately after removing an object so that the resin doesn’t harden.
• Most 3D printing software uses millimeters to size objects. Always be sure to communicate this to patrons who want to use the printer to ensure proper sizing.
• Thingiverse is your best option for finding 3D objects to print.
• Supports are very important with resin printing, and it’s always better to use them.
o Supports can be tricky to remove, so if you’re printing for a patron, you could have them remove the supports on their so that you don’t damage the object
• Trial and error is ultimately your best method for learning about your printer. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, and know that every problem is fixable.

For more detailed information about your 3D printer, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s guides and website. Most manufacturers also have user forums where you can ask questions or simply read answers and solutions to problems you might encounter.

All About FDM 3D Printers

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The most commonly used 3D printer is FDM, or fused deposition modeling. This is the type of printing that most of us think of when talking about 3D printing. FDM printers come in all different shapes and sizes, and each one will operate differently. There are, however, standard parts and accessories for every 3D printer.

Build plate: Ultimately where your project is built, and a part that could make or break your print. The filament is melted onto the surface of the build plate, and is built bottom-up. Not all surfaces look exactly the same, so it’s important to know the type of surface you’re working with. In addition to the build plate and surface on your printer, you can purchase adhesive sheets that sit on top of the build plate. Adhesive sheets can be helpful, as you can remove them from the build plate and gently twist them to more easily remove your print.
• Glass is a common surface, and helps provide a smooth finish for your prints. However, many glass surfaces require blue painter’s tape, or a glue stick, or even a spritz of aerosol hairspray so that the print can adhere properly. The type of adherence aid you use depends on the type of filament you’re working with.
• PEI is a surface sheet that is placed on the build plate, and has great adherence right out of the gate. However, this great adherence could mean that filaments like PETG can get a little stuck to the surface, and you may face difficulty removing the print.
• Aluminum surfaces can also be build plates on their own, but also pair well with adhesive sheets
Working with your Build Plate
It’s important to maintain and clean your build plate; for most filaments, a clean surface means better adherence (however PETG might actually adhere better to a slightly dirty build plate). The build plate can also get extremely hot, so use caution while handling the printer after a job.

Extruder: This is the most important part of your printer. It contains a motor and other mechanical pieces — this is called the cold end. It also contains a nozzle (and other parts) — the hot end — where the filament comes out onto the build plate. The filament is placed into the cold end of the extruder, melted, and then pushed out through the nozzle. Basically, it’s a mechanical hot glue gun! Some 3D printers have two or even multiple extruders so that two different kinds of or color filaments can print at one time. This is sometimes called “dual-extrusion.”

A word about nozzles:
Like your build plate, it’s important to clean and maintain your extruder’s nozzle. Filament may build up on your nozzle, and keeping it clean will lead to fewer filament jams for your printer. Depending on your plan for your printer, you may also want to invest in different nozzle sizes. Nozzle diameters range from 0.25mm to 1mm, with smaller nozzles providing more detail and larger ones creating a faster print. A standard nozzle diameter is 0.4mm, with 0.35mm being another common type.

Filament spool: Every 3D printer will have a spot to place the filament so that it can be easily loaded into the extruder. Sometimes this is a spool inside or outside the printer.
Information Screen: Depending on your printer, this is where you can select files for printing, load/unload filament, track the progress of your print job, view the temperature of the nozzle, & more. This screen might also contain a slot for an SD card to print your design.
Software: Most of the time you will be using the software that is recommended by the manufacturer of your printer. However, you may also elect to use alternate programs for printing. Please see Introduction to 3D Printing for Libraries for software recommendations.
Material: The material used for FDM is plastic-based filament, generally found on a reel. There are many different filament types, including some that are mixed with wood and metal. Please see Introduction to 3D Printing for Libraries for material information.

Tips & Tricks for FDM 3D Printing

• You might need certain tools to help you lift a 3D print off the build plate. We find that a metal or plastic label scraper works well for this — just be gentle, as some prints could be brittle or thin and may break easily.
• Most 3D printing software uses millimeters to size objects. Always be sure to communicate this to patrons who want to use the printer to ensure proper sizing.
• Thingiverse is your best option for finding 3D objects to print.
• Filament jams in your extruder are inevitable, so be sure to read your manufacturer’s solutions for these jams, as not every extruder is the same.
o However, some of the time you can clear a jam by heating up the extruder and pushing through new filament.
• Trial and error is ultimately your best method for learning about your printer. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake, and know that every problem is fixable.

For more detailed information about your 3D printer, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s guides. Most manufacturers also have user forums where you can ask questions or simply read answers and solutions to problems you might encounter. You can also visit MatterHackers for filament and in-depth guides to general 3D printing.

3D Printing Software (Cura)

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Understanding your 3D printing software is just as important as understanding your printer. Your software can ultimately make or break your actual print. You might wind up using the software that is recommended by your printer’s manufacturer, but no matter your decision, there are essential parts of 3D printing software. It is helpful to know other software options that you can recommend or offer to patrons. Here are just a few options:
• Cura
• TinkerCad (a web-based 3D design service)
• SketchUp
• Fusion360
• And more!

For the purposes of this guide, we will be using Cura. Your software will look different, but many of the terms and concepts will be the same. First, let’s go over some important terms:
• Overhang
• Supports
• Infill
• Infill Pattern
• Speed
• Build Plate Adhesion
• Slice
• Cut

With some 3D printing programs, you will have to select the printer you’re working with, as well as the filament you’re using. Always take these two actions first before you import a file so that you are working with the proper amount of space, and the proper settings. Once you have taken these two steps and loaded your file, you can get started!

It is important to work carefully, and look out for any potential issues with the file you’re working with. For example, you could be working with an object that has text, but the text might not be completely attached to its base. In this case, if you missed and didn’t correct this problem by adding more supports, the print would fail. Sometimes, there are problems you just can’t see that lead to failed prints, but you can always start again, or reach out to the patron and explain the issues you are having.

3D printing programs will provide you with a scaled down workspace that can be moved to see every angle of your 3D file. Each program will have icons you can use to select a different view (Front, Top, Right, Left), but you can also use the left or right click of your mouse as well. When your design is loaded up, you just need to select it with your mouse to get started. From there, the following basic options — and more — will be available to you:
• Rotate
• Move
• Scale

When your design is the proper size and rotation, you can move on to adding a brim/skirt and supports, or make changes to the print settings. You can choose to have supports just come from the build plate only for a little extra stability, or you can have supports placed everywhere around the design. This choice will depend on the thickness of the design, and whether it has a lot of overhangs. Many programs allow you to control how thick your supports or as well; or they will auto-generate supports.

When you are satisfied with your changes, you will need to slice your print. Your program should have an option available that simply says “Slice.” Once this process is complete, you will be able to see a digital preview of how your print will look. Rotate your view around to be sure everything looks good.

You will also see approximately how long your print will take and how much filament it will use — this is an important number for pricing out how much your will charge the patron for their print.

Your final step will be to either send over your file wirelessly to your chosen 3D printer, or to save the Gcode to an SD or USB drive (depending on what your printer takes). All that’s left to do from here is start your print!