3D at the Library

Making space for the third dimension

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The East Baton Rouge Public Library is home to a kind of communal area called a Maker Space, where people can gather to create, invent, and share their ideas with others who have similar interests. At the figurative center of this space glows the library’s 3D printer, a machine capable of producing three-dimensional plastic objects based off of models or electronic data. Other tools in the space include laser cutters and electronics; and demonstrations are held periodically for those interested.

The 3D printer, the library’s first acquisition, has proved very popular, with consequently long wait times. But these delays might be alleviated by the fact that the library has welcomed another edition to its futuristic family—a 3D milling machine. Like the printer, the milling machine—also called a 3D carver or computer numerical control (CNC) machine—is capable of creating precise parts and special designs; and the materials that it can accept extend to wood and metal.

The machine was acquired through a contest hosted by Inventables, a company whose mission it is to reimagine the traditional tenets of mass production by putting the power of product development and production in the hands of individuals or entrepreneurs. With the availability of relatively inexpensive production equipment and materials, Inventables considers small-scale manufacturing a growth industry in the United States.

Andrew Tadman, the library’s coordinator for reference and computer services, said that their milling machine is often used to create small furniture pieces and machine parts. “People have been submitting their own designs that we can print for them,” he said. “Sometimes we don’t even know what they are. It might be a small part to some furniture that they’ve lost or couldn’t replace. A lot of bike equipment; things like that.”

Tadman said that the public will be able to attend workshops hosted by the library to learn the special software, called Easel, needed to operate the machine. The library also hopes that these hands-on experiences will help amplify interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.

The first ever “fair for Makers” will also take place at the Main Library on Goodwood on September 20 from 10 am–4 pm. The fair will showcase work by anyone with a do-it-yourself spirit who wants to share their accomplishments with an appreciative audience. The library encourages all types of creative “makers” to apply for booth space—from 3D printing and inventions, to traditional crochet, painting, music, and craft demonstrations.

Submit an application via a link at ebrpl.libguides.com/make. There’s no cost to exhibit, but space is limited. For more information, call (225) 231-3712.