Fondulac District Library houses a Bambu X1-Carbon Combo printer for public printing. Designs can be submitted for printing via the 3D Printing Request Form. Staff will review the submission and, if accepted, add the project to the queue. A staff member will notify the patron when the project is completed.

What is 3D printing?

3D printing is the process of making a three dimensional object from a digital file. The object is created by laying down successive layers of plastic filament.

What can I print with the 3D printer?

The library’s 3D printer allows for a variety of creative objects and designs. Please attend one of the library’s 3D printing workshops to learn more about designing objects and the printing process. Please review the FDL Project Request Policy for more details.

How do I submit my design to be printed?

Please fill out the 3D Printing Request Form.

Where can I get ideas for designs?

There are many websites dedicated to sharing ideas and designs of 3D printed objects, including Thingiverse, MakerWorld, Tinkercad.

Are there any design rules I need to follow?

Though the library encourages patrons to be creative, objects with large overhangs or sides without supports cannot successfully be printed on the library’s printer. The time limit for public print requests is 4 hours. Once the file is received, our software will estimate the completion time. The max build volume 256 x 256 x 256mm ³ (10 inches). For more technical specifications, please visit the Bambu website.

Can I print a multi-colored object?

Fondulac District Library does not have a dual-extruder printer and can only print in solid colors for time being. Color choices are available on the 3D Printing Request Form.

Is there a cost to print?

The cost of 3D printing is based on the amount of time it takes for the design to be printed.

Please refer to the fee schedule below:

$2 – submitted file with a print time of 1 hour or less

$4 – submitted file with a print time of 1+ hours to 2 hours

$6 – submitted file with a print time of 2+ hours to 3 hours

$8 – submitted file with a print time of 3+ hours to 4 hours

Cost estimates can be disclosed prior to starting the printing process as per the patron’s request.

The fee can be paid in person or added as a charge to a library card. The charge shows up as “fine” on the card and may block the card if the patron already has accumulated fines.

After receiving a 3D print file, library staff will contact the patron regarding the viability of the print job. If the file meets the regulations outlined in the policy and limitations of the printer, staff will request payment. No refunds will be given.

How many designs can I have printed?

Patrons are limited to printing one design per 7 days.

What if I need help with my design or troubleshooting my design?

Library staff are available for printing assistance only. Library staff will do their best to facilitate the printing of a patron’s design. Occasionally, it may be necessary to troubleshoot errors or complications. If a patron requires additional assistance with designing or troubleshooting, they are invited to attend one of the library’s workshops.

How long will it take to print my design?

Print time depends on the complexity of the design. Objects with many layers or a complicated structure can take hours to print. Simpler, flatter designs can be finished in as little as a few minutes. Fondulac District Library will print objects that can be completed in less than four hours. Printing requests will be completed on a first come, first served basis.

Where will my printing take place?

The object will be printed behind the glass windows of the Adult Services workroom.

Do I need to be present while my object is being printed?

Patrons do not have to be present while their design is printed. The library will contact the patron upon its completion. A design will be held for 30 days. Please ask for your project at the drive up window. After 30 days, items will become the property of Fondulac District Library.

What if I have other questions?

Please visit or call the library at 309-699-3917 or review FDL Project Request Policy.