KINGSPORT TENNESSEE

Kingsport Public Library
3D Printer at Kingsport Public Library
Have you heard of 3D printers but don’t know what they are
or how they work? Now you have an opportunity to see one in
action at the Kingsport Public Library (KPL), which has recently
joined the ranks of over 250 public libraries in the U.S. who
offer access to 3D printing.
3D printing is the process of making a physical object from
a three-dimensional digital model, meaning you can turn
any object design into an actual object. This technology yields many benefits: provides opportunities for children to
experiment with new technologies, encourages new technology-based innovation in small business, and helps people
of all ages build cutting-edge skills for the innovation economy.
Patrons who have a Kingsport Public Library card and are in good standing can bring print files to the library in .stl
format, or use the scanner or Doodle3D box. Library staff or trained volunteers will actually print the object. A
minimal fee of $1.00 per print job and $.15 per gram of filament used will be charged.
KPL’s 3D printer station includes an Ultimaker 2+ printer, a Matter and Form scanner, a Doodle3D box and a laptop.
With the Matter and Form scanner, you can scan a small object, save the file and print it using the 3D printer. The
Doodle3D allows you to draw your own design using a smart phone, tablet or the library’s laptop and print it to the
3D printer. And of course, the Ultimaker 2+ will also print designs that are found in free programs such as Tinkercar,
Blender, Sketchup or 123D Design and designs that are created by patrons on other design software. Kenny Cornett
of K2 Designs, helped install the machines and spent many hours volunteering his time to train the library staff and
volunteers.
The printer will primarily use nGen filament for printing. It can be made into high-quality filament that exhibits
advanced overhang ability, excellent looks, and large printing temperature range—empowering users to create
durable and useful items.
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