Community Collaborations: 3D Printer @ RPL
Outcome 1: Increase access to 3D printing information for the general public
Measurement: Number of 3D printing pamphlets distributed from display outside of the computer lab.
Measurement: Number of 3D printing questions answered by staff at the public Reference desk and in drop-in computer classes.
Measurement: 80% of adult/general public program attendees will report that "3D Printing @ RPL" is their first opportunity to view a 3D printer on post program surveys.
Measurement: 70% of adult/general public program attendees will report an increase in 3D printer knowledge on post program surveys.
Measurement: Number of attendees at adult/general audience programs.
Measurement: Number of attendees at youth 3D printing programs.
Outcome 2: Increase access to 3D printing for youth.
Measurement: 85% of youth program attendees will report that "3D Printing @ RPL" is their first opportunity to work with a 3D printer on post program surveys.
Outcome 3: Increase 3D design skill level for youth.
Measurement: 70% of youth program attendees will successfully design and print a simple 3D object.
Measurement: 80% of youth program attendees report an increase in skill level on post program surveys.
Survey information and attendee counts will be collected and reported to SELCO at the conclusion of the programs to assess the effectiveness of this program.
39 of 41 teen and "tween" respondents (95%) felt they had increased their skill level with 3D design programs
48 of 49 teen and "tween" participants (98%) were able to print out an object they designed (one participant's design was not printable).
30 of 41 teen and "tween" respondents (73%) said this was their first chance to work with a 3D printer or 3D modeling software
Adult programs - Total attendance 45
19 of 20 respondents (95%) had never seen a 3D printer in person before the program
20 of 20 respondents (100%) felt they knew more about 3D printers after the program.
Many people thanked us for showing them a 3D printer; they had never seen one before and were able to connect to this new technology at the library. The kids at the classes were thrilled to be able to make customized phone cases, earrings and other simple designs. We learned that we needed to use very basic programs to introduce 3D design. We printed a design for Mother's Day gift that a patron had created. We had an inventor come in and ask about how to make a 3D model prototype of a design he had created, and he has signed up for a class to do so at the library. There have been many phone calls and email asking about how and when the printer will be available for 3D prints to the public - we have started printing objects for patrons. Our classes for adults in June are starting to fill up.
Rochester Community & Technical College (RCTC), Rochester Public Library, SELCO