Printing: Now in 3D at MLC

Maker Bot Replicator 2X

This past Saturday, at the inaugural Mississippi Book Festival, the Mississippi Library Commission's 3D printer made its grand debut. MLC librarians gave demonstrations to the public all day long, but if you missed it (or just want to know more) we've got the skinny on 3D printing:

• The Mississippi Library Commission has bought a Maker Bot Replicator 2X. According to CE Training Coordinator, Joy Garretson, MLC is "developing partnerships to help schools and libraries in Mississippi have access to 3D printing."
• This groundbreaking printer does exactly what it sounds like it does: it takes the information programmed into it and lays down thin layers of material in a certain pattern, eventually producing a 3D object.
• The printer will be yet another way for the Mississippi Library Commission to support all literacies and to meet our population's needs. Our residents will learn  basic engineering skills and programming skills, and thus stay on the cutting edge of technology. 
• The 3D printer will also foster important STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills and education in our young people.
• Fun fact: several other Mississippi libraries now own a 3D printer. Puckett High School and public libraries in Philadelphia, Purvis, Quitman, and Starkville are all proud owners of 3D printers. Mississippi State University's Mitchell Memorial Library also has one.
• The 3D printer will be available through MLC. Contact Joy Garretson for more information.

Snazzy cat ring made using the Maker Bot Replicator 2X