3D Printer Policy
The Harrison Public Library has a Makerbot Replicator Mini 3D printer. This 3D Printer Policy (“Policy”) and its accompanying 3D Printer Agreement (“Agreement”) governs its use.
How the 3D printer works
A patron designs a three-dimensional object using a 3D modeling program or a website such as Thingiverse.com.
Then the patron saves the design as an STL file and submits the file to the Library. The 3D printer prints the three-dimensional object in plastic, layer by layer, following the design file.
What may be printed
The 3D printer must be capable of printing the object in no more than four hours. No 3D printing will be done when the Library is closed.
The completed 3D-printed object must be smaller than 5” x 4” x 4” and must be one color.
No more than one object per week can be printed for a patron.
If a previous 3D print has not been picked up by a patron HPL will follow up directly with the patron before accepting a new request.
The Library reserves the right in its sole discretion to refuse any 3D printing request.
The 3D printer may be used for lawful purposes only. Patrons will not be permitted to use the printer to create the following:
- Objects that are prohibited by local, state, or federal law
- Objects that are unsafe, harmful, or dangerous or that may pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others, for example, guns, knives, or other possibly lethal weapons
- Objects that are obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment.
Who may use the 3D printer
Only trained Library staff members may have actual hands-on access to the 3D printer.
Any patron with a valid library card from a Westchester Library System library may request a 3D print. Priority will be given to patrons with a valid Harrison Public Library card.
How to request to have an object printed
A patron must upload his or her STL file to harrisonpl.org/3D and enter the required information.
If a requested 3D-printed object meets the Library’s design and printing requirements, a Library staff member will contact the patron.
At this point in the process, but in any event no later than pickup, the patron (or his/her parent or legal guardian, if under 18) must agree to this Policy by signing the Agreement in the presence of the designated Library employee. The signed Agreement will be retained by the Library.
Printing requests are subject to staff and printer availability and the Library cannot estimate how long any request will take to complete. The patron will be notified by the Library when the printed object is available for pickup.
Completed printed objects must be picked up at the Library’s circulation desk. Objects which are not picked up within seven (7) calendar days following printing will be disposed of.
How much printing costs
Currently there is no charge for 3D printing, although a charge may be imposed at a later date.
About privacy
Complete patron privacy may not be possible during this 3D printer process.
The Harrison Public Library, its staff and its trustees, and the Town/Village of Harrison are not responsible for any injuries or damage caused by any 3D objects printed at the Library or for any 3D-printed objects that violate any patent, trademark, or copyright.
Approved by the Harrison Public Library Board of Trustees, 6/6/16, 4/1/19, 2/5/24.