3D printing

Create physical 3D models from digital files with printers that melt and extrude plastic layer-by-layer.

Durham County Library has Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D printers. For more information and specifications about these printers, please visit the product website.

Want to 3D print or learn more about it? We have 3 ways for you to access our 3D printing trainings:

• Take a 2-part virtual orientation. This option is offered each month on the 1st and 2nd Wednesdays.
• Take a 2-part in-person orientation. This option is offered each month on the 3rd and 4th Tuesdays.
• Complete a self-paced online orientation (recommended for those with prior experience).

Usage procedures

Printable procedures (PDF)

Design creation

• Objects must not violate the Library’s Technology Policy.
• Model files must not be larger than the dimensions of the printer.
  Dremel DigiLab 3D45 3D Printer – 254mm W x 152mm L x 170 mm H bedsize (10″x6″x6.7″)
• The maximum weight for a 3D print is 300 grams.

Submitting a model in 3DPrinterOS

• Must be 13 years of age or older or use a parent’s account with permission.
• Pricing of your object is $0.10/gram of PLA filament.
• You can have a maximum of 2 items queued at one time.
• You must include your library card number as a note on your object.
• Staff review all project files, so please submit appropriate objects.
• Staff reserve the right to refuse to print any item.

Final product

• Please allow 1-2 weeks for your object to be printed. Wait times may vary.
• Library staff are not responsible for the outcome of your print.
• Objects will be printed in whatever filament color is available.
• The cost for your object will be charged to your library account.
• You must pay for your print before picking it up.
• You must wait for an email from a STEAM staff member before picking up (NOT the automated email from 3DPrinterOS).
• Object must be picked up within 7 days of receiving an email from STEAM staff.

Procedures governing the use of the Library’s 3D printers are subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact the Maker + STEAM Team at Maker_STEAM@dconc.gov.

3D printing technology policy

Durham County Library is committed to bridging the digital divide and making technologies like 3D printing available to our community. Durham County Library 3D printers cannot be used to do the following:

1. Create items that are not allowed by local, state or federal law.
2. Create items that are in violation of Durham County and Durham County Library policies.
3. Create items that are unsafe, harmful, or pose a threat to others.
4. Create items that are obscene, vulgar, or inappropriate.
5. Create items that are in violation of intellectual property rights.

3D prints will be reviewed by Durham County Library staff prior to print, and the Library reserves the right to refuse any print file submitted. Durham County Library assumes no responsibility for faulty prints that are a result of incorrectly constructed 3D print files by the customer. Durham County Library staff will print the file as submitted. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure the file for their 3D object fits within the Durham County Library 3D printer size specifications.

The Durham County Library cannot assure privacy or security of 3D prints, and assumes no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, that may occur from the use of a 3D printed object.

See our full Technology Policy >