By Riley Fontana
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Sherborn Library recently acquired a 3-D printer for its ever-growing collection of tools. To show off their new machine the library invited patrons to come and watch as the printer made bookmarks for people.
Currently, the library is figuring out exactly how and when the printer will be used. “We’re trying to find a balance between using it for programs and personal projects,” said Quincy Knapp, the teen librarian. At the moment there are plans to host programs involving the printer once a month at the moment, but more will be revealed later on.
To get people interested and learn about the printer the library found some bookmarks to print out for patrons. They were offering a Pikachu design or a small star to keep the place in readings. Patrons were invited to watch as the printer worked and built up the different designs. 3-D printers can take a long time, so those interested in a bookmark were invited to pick a completed one up at a later date.
The library was able to afford the machine thanks to the Middlesex Savings Bank Grant they had been given. The printer will be used for programs of all ages, and there is an aim to get younger generations involved with the programs required. There is no end to what a 3-D printer can make which makes it perfect for a library setting.
Patrons in attendance were already suggesting ideas for programs like leaves for the fall and solar systems. A few people have experience with their own printers and share tips and tricks for getting the best results and designing small details. Everyone was excited to watch as the bookmark took form in front of their eyes and for events in the future.
The Sherborn Library is very excited to share its new 3-D printer with all of its patrons. There is no shortage of ideas and excitement for projects and programs bouncing around, so be sure to keep an eye on the library calendar for when these events will be happening. Patrons can also suggest ideas to the librarians for what they’d like to do with the printer.
