What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of the library?

Did you think of books? Most people would make that association but the reality is so much more. A modern library is an institution that provides access to a wide range of technology and media.

“We really pride ourselves on bringing the STEAM technologies to our branches,” Kim Hebig is a Director with the regional library. “So that’s science, technology, arts, and math. The 3D printer really encapsulates all that so well.”

The Wheatland regional library purchased 3D printer in late 2018. When it first arrive it had been making stops in local branches and schools so individuals would get the chance to see it in action. Now the printer is at home in Saskatoon where it will remain to print.

“It will still be available to go on tours,” Kim adds. “But printing in 3D takes so much time, it’s not like printing on a piece of paper at home, it needs a permanent home.”

Their are a few guidelines the library has put in place for the printer. They won’t print anything that is harmful, or could be harmful to others, and they wont print anything related to food.

“The plastic the printer uses is not food safe,” Kim says. “It need’s to be treated with a chemical to be safe to use as a fork, or plate. We also can’t print anything that has a copyright.”

To use the service just visit the regional library’s website and submit your digital design file. After the print is complete they will mail it out to your regional branch.

“This is a great way for local inventors to build cheap prototypes. You can actually take our books, learn from them, and use the 3D printer to develop your ideas.”