I’m not sure I fully understand 3-D printing, but it sure sounds cool…and expensive! The Denver Public Library’s SM Energy ideaLab has three 3-D printers. And you can use them for FREE. All printing is done with PLA, a bioplastic made of corn. Due to demand and limited resources, you cannot print any job that takes more than two hours to complete. (If you have something more time-consuming, the staff will help you figure out how to break up your project into smaller jobs or scale your print.) Only Library staff and trained volunteers will have hands-on access to the 3-D printers. (The Library retains the right to refuse any print request for any reason.) For complete program details, click here.
The lab is open to all — no library card needed. The lab is located at the Central Library. Here are the current lab hours: Monday and Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. You can also call the lab at 720-865-1706.