A wish that begets more wishes at Lower Macungie Library---If you could make a wish that allows other people to create things they wish for, would you do it? Kathee Rhode, executive director at Lower Macungie Library did.Emmaus Rotary representatives approached Rhode a couple of years ago to ask how they could support the Lower Macungie Library and Rhode suggested a 3D printer. A few months later, in February 2017, a new 3D printer was installed.
Since then patrons of the library have used the printer to create everything from a Fidget Spinner - a popular children’s toy that local stores could not keep in stock – to decorative items and hard-to-find replacement parts. The process is easy. Patrons send the schematics to 3dprints@lowermaclib.org. A library representative reviews the plans and lets patrons know how much filament is necessary and what the cost will be. Once approved, library reps will program the printer and start the process. Patrons can watch it being printed if they choose or come in when it’s done.
“We are excited to be the only library in the Lehigh Valley to offer this service,” said Rhode. “At Lower Mac Library we always look for innovative ways to stay relevant to the community we serve and it’s been wonderful to see the response our new printer has evoked. We can’t thank the Emmaus Rotary enough for a donation that will continue to support our community into the future.”