Saturday, May 31, 2014

MLIS 7505: Is 3D printing all the rage?

So, one of the big topics of discussion this past week was 3D printing. We read one article in particular that talked about implementing 3D printing in a large public university library. This library implemented a relatively low cost printer and then charged for the printing. However, they did not receive a ton of usage, but there was still some benefits for students and researchers who needed this specialized technology.

I know some public libraries have such printers, but I'm not sold that they fit the need of every library or institution.  This is mostly because it seems like a specialized technology - perhaps similar to a CAD machine - that would fit nicely in a community or library with such a demand.  I can see university libraries with a engineering, architecture, or other scientific programs benefiting.  My knowledge is fairly limited on this topic, but I'm not sure all libraries need to be clamoring to provide such technology quite yet.

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