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Introduction
3D printers and maker spaces are very popular topics for libraries and library services. They are seen as taking the next step toward meeting patron needs as well as a technology and space for engaging curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. While maker spaces and 3D technologies are exciting they also come with their own challenges and successes as can be the case with any new type of technology. There might be questions to ask before implementing this technology or type of learning space. How would 3D printing work in my library? How do we staff the maker space area? Does anyone know how to work a 3D printer? What is 3D printing? What exactly is a maker space?
3D printing allows users to create physical objects out of digital ideas. This type of printing lets a creator or maker use a digital file to make or create an object they then can hold in their hand (Kaur, 2012). There are multiple types of 3D printers available for users but often they fall into three main categories. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers, which are the most popular at this time, are ones where a plastic is melted and cooled to build an item layer by layer. Stereolithography printers are those where ultraviolet light is used to harden the model while it is in a pool of photosensitive liquid. The third type of 3D printer is called selective laser sintering where powders and lasers are used to create models instead of the liquids used in sterolithography (Jamaluddin, 2013). The needs of the patrons in the library will help guide you in which type of 3D printer might be right for you. FDM printers such as MakerBot Replicators are the most popular for libraries simply because they are the easiest to set up and use.
A maker space is a location where students and patrons can create, craft, solve problems, and develop new skills (Preddy, 2013). They are also a location where users can learn through experimentation and play. Maker spaces are places where library clients can come together to share, collaborate, and explore (Britton, 2012). No one maker space is the same. Some of these learning spaces are focussed on technology where programming, hacking, music recording, and...