Texas Border Business
McAllen- McAllen Public Library is offering an exciting new service at the main library. The library’s 3D printers are now available to print designs submitted by library patrons. The printers, which use plastic filament to build objects layer by layer, can print just about any object that can be designed.
Patrons can design objects using 3D modeling websites, such as Tinkercad or Thingiverse, which also provide design-ready objects for printing. Patrons can then save the design on a flash drive in .STL format, bring it to the Computer Lab at the Main Library and talk to a staff member to submit the design for printing. The cost of 3D printing is .10 per gram and staff will give the patron an estimate on the time it will take for the print to be ready.
“Libraries are truly at the forefront of technology,” said Kate Horan, Library Director. “This service is the next step we are taking after the launch of our MPLab space to provide access to new and exciting technology.”
In addition to the service, the library has classes available for all ages that serve as an introduction to 3D printing. Patrons that register for the classes learn about the basics of 3D printing and get hands on experience with Thingiverse.
For more information about 3D printing and 3D printing classes, please visithttps://www.mcallenlibrary.net/services/mplab or call the library at 956-681-3000.
