The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

Interested in bringing 3D printing to your library but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly webinar introduces you to the fundamentals of 3D printing—what it is, how it works, and how to create meaningful programs around it. Through the lens of cultural heritage, you'll learn how to find or create 3D models, clean them up using free tools like Tinkercad and Meshmixer, and prepare them for printing in slicers like Cura.

We'll explore beginner- and intermediate-level workflows, including using photogrammetry to digitize real-world objects, remixing ancient artifacts, and running themed programs like "Design Your Own Amulet" or "Build a Mini Egyptian Tomb." You'll leave with practical tools, step-by-step guidance, and ready-to-run program ideas for patrons of all ages.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Explain the basic steps of 3D printing, including model creation, cleanup, slicing, and printing, using accessible tools like Tinkercad, Meshmixer, and Cura.
• Identify and evaluate sources for 3D models, including cultural heritage repositories and community platforms like Thingiverse, and understand how to modify or remix models for educational use.
• Design and implement beginner-friendly, themed 3D printing programs with a cultural heritage focus—such as artifact recreation, tomb-building, or amulet design—for a range of age groups and library settings.

Presenter

Ellyssa Valenti Kroski is the Director of Innovation & Engagement at the New York Law Institute as well as an award-winning editor and author of 75 books. She is a librarian, an adjunct faculty member at San Jose State University, and an international conference speaker. She can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/author/ellyssa.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.