Jan.23, 2014
This Saturday, the Toronto Public Library will offer an Intro to 3D Design course through their new Digital Innovation Hub which is set to open February 4th. The Digital Innovation Hub is home to 3D printers, 3D scanners, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi – among other technology.
3D printers and other digital technology have been moving into public libraries across the world – especially in the United States.
Hubs like the one at the Toronto Library are incredible resources for people who would like to learn more about 3D design and technology – and maybe even give 3D printing a try – without having to invest a lot of time and money.
The Toronto Star reported that "the hubs are part of the Toronto Public Library's strategic plan, as the traditional houses for books and literature try to reposition themselves in an increasingly digital environment." Reference library manager Paul Trumphour views libraries as "helping people understand their world" – which increasing includes the digital world. The technology in the library's hub cost around $44,000 Canadian dollars and was partially paid for through public fund raising.
Library patrons will be able to use the 3D printers for a small fee: around 5 cents a minute for the first two hours – plus a $1 base fee. So an iPhone case which prints in around 90 minutes would cost around $5.50. In addition to 3D printers, the Innovation Hub will offer visitors access to video cameras, green screens, audio equipment and tablets – as well as other devices. The technology will be supported through multiple courses with monthly meetings on topics like robotics and wearable tech. The library is also partnering with Toronto's maker community to reach as many interested people as possible.
Posted in 3D Printing Applications
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In the Metro Vancouver area, the Richmond Public Library (Brighouse Branch) has offered a similar "3D print for a small fee" program since 2014.
3Ders.org provides the latest news about 3D printing technology and 3D printers. We are now seven years old and have around 1.5 million unique visitors per month.
