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3D Printing

3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, means making things layer by layer according to a 3D design file.

As of September 1, 2024 all 3D printing is paused until further notice while we evaluate our capacity to continue providing this service sustainably.

TRL began offering 3D printing at the Montesano library in 2021. The following year, a second 3D printer was brought online at the Tumwater library. In the years since, demand for 3D printing has steadily increased with average monthly requests more than doubling from 53 in December 2023 to 129 in July 2024. At this time, usage has begun to exceed what we are able to accommodate in light of the cost of supplies and staff time necessary to process print jobs and troubleshoot. In the interest of using resources responsibly, we are pausing 3D printing requests in order to evaluate whether we are able to continue this program in the future, or if we can implement changes to ensure that it is sustainable.

We expect to have a clearer picture of the future of 3D printing availability in early 2025 and we will update our website with new information as soon as we know more. We appreciate your patience and understanding, and thank you for your support of Timberland Regional Library.

How to Print

Just complete the request form with your .stl file.

Print sizes:
Maximum dimensions are 6” (15cm) L x 6” (15cm) W x 6” (15cm) and no more than 24 hour print time per print. Only one print every two weeks.

Filament Color:
One color per file. Filament is usually available in classic and neutral colors; Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, black, white, gray, beige, gold and/or copper. Include first and second color choice; staff try to accommodate color choices but at times it is based on filament availability. Please call the library for available colors.

These are all free to use or offer free options.

3D Printing Resouces

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