3D Printing for Anytown Public Library Patrons
Upload a file, choose a color, and a vetted local maker prints it. We email you when it's ready at your library branch.
No file yet? Find a free model or make your own.
Upload your 3D models
STL files. Next you pick a color and options, then review your order. Sign in with your library card at checkout.
STL files. Next you pick a color and options, then see the cost before you order. Sign in with your library card at checkout.
*upload will not work on sample page
Community-based 3D printing
The library doesn't run a print lab. Local makers who own 3D printers print for patrons instead. Each maker is vetted before printing and rated after every order, and every file is checked before it prints.
Anytown Public Library pays for the prints, so they're free with your library card.
- 01
Find or make a model
Download a free model from MakerWorld, Printables or Thingiverse, or design one in Tinkercad.
- 02
Upload and pick a color and options
Sign in with your library card, upload the STL, and review your order.
Sign in with your library card, upload the STL, and see the cost before you order.
- 03
A maker prints it
We check the file is safe to print, then a vetted local maker prints it layer by layer.
- 04
Get your print
The maker drops it off at your library branch. We email you when it's ready to pick up.
- 05
Rate your experience
Tell us how it went. Ratings keep every maker's work up to standard.
Your library card is your print pass
Prints are free for you. Anytown Public Library pays for them so everyone in the community can make things.
Use your library card to send prints to Anytown Public Library. You see the price before you order.
Each order punches one hole.
Your card gets 2 orders each month.
Why a limit? Plastic and printer time cost real money. Limits make sure everyone gets a turn.
Find a model, or make your own
You need a 3D file to print. Here's where to get one and how to make sure it's ready.
Find a free model
Millions of free designs are shared online. Search, download the STL, and upload it here.
- MakerWorld
- Printables
- Thingiverse
Check each model's license before you print it.
Make your own
Tinkercad is free and runs in your web browser. Drag shapes together, then export an STL.
- Tinkercad
- Free guides for beginners, below
Get your file ready
- ✓Use an STL file. Have a 3MF or OBJ? Export it as STL from your design app.
- ✓Check the size. Up to 10 × 10 × 10 in (254 mm a side). You can scale it down when you upload.
- ✓Too big? Split it into parts and upload each one.
- ✓Stuck? Chat with our support team.
What we can't print
Every file is checked before it prints. These items are never allowed, so please check your idea before you upload.
Weapons and weapon parts
No guns, knives or other weapons, and no gun parts, frames or devices that change how a weapon works.
Plans for making weapons
No files, templates or instructions meant to help build or modify a weapon.
Anything illegal
Nothing that is against the law to make, own or sell, or that helps someone break the law.
Items that promote violence
Nothing that encourages hurting people or celebrates violence.
Hate or harassment
Nothing that promotes hatred, bullying or discrimination against anyone.
Someone else's design or brand
Only print designs you have the right to use. Check the model's license, and don't copy logos or products.
A file that looks like one of these may be held for review or turned down, and breaking the rules can cancel an order or close an account.
Seasonal project calendar
A project idea for every season, with a tip that makes the first print go well.
Halloween decorations
Tip: pick a one-piece model with a flat base. It prints without supports and comes off the plate clean.
Flexi Shark by ThreeLittleBirds 3D. It prints in one piece with no supports, then wiggles right off the plate
Models are made by their creators. Always check the model's license before printing.
Learn & make
Free beginner guides to 3D printing and 3D design.
How 3D printers work
A hot nozzle draws with melted plastic, one thin layer at a time.
Add text to a model
Put a name or a label on a model. A good first design project.
Choose a material
PLA is made from plants, PETG is tough, TPU bends. Which one fits your project?
Tinkercad for beginners
Drag shapes together and export an STL, free in your web browser.
Scale a model to fit
Make a model bigger or smaller so it fits the size limit.
How long printing takes
What sets print time, and how to plan your order around it.
Tinkercad in four sessions
Four short sessions that take you from your first shape to a model the library can print.
Shape basics
Drag, spin and stretch shapes. Build a name tag.
Holes and groups
Cut holes and group shapes. Make a keychain.
Measure and align
Use the ruler and align tools. Build a pencil cup.
Solve a real problem
Design a part that fixes something, export it, and send it to the library to print.
Instructor kit coming soon.
Questions
Something else? Ask library staff at any branch.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. Anytown Public Library pays for your prints.
You pay by card when you order. The uploader shows the price before you check out.
How many prints can I order?
Your library card gets 2 orders a month. Each order can include several models, and the count resets on the 1st. Canceled orders don't count.
How long does it take?
Usually within a week. We email you when your print is at your branch.
How long will the branch hold my print?
Each library sets its own pickup window. Ask library staff at your branch.
What files can I upload?
STL files. If your model is a 3MF or OBJ, export it as STL from your design app first.
What if my file can't be printed?
The uploader warns you if a file is too big or can't be priced. If a maker can't print it, the order is canceled and doesn't count toward your monthly limit.
What if the library can't print what I need?
If it's too big, or you've used this month's orders or credits, you can order it yourself at app.intagly.com. You pay by card, and it ships by UPS, which can take 5–7 days.
What colors and materials can I choose?
Prints are made in PLA plastic, in the colors your library offers. You choose when you upload.
Who prints my model?
Local people with 3D printers, often library patrons themselves. Every maker is reviewed before they print for the library and rated after each order.
Do I need to know 3D design?
No. You can print a free model from MakerWorld, Printables or Thingiverse. To make your own, Tinkercad is free and runs in your web browser.