As the maker movement continues to grow and 3-D printers become more affordable, an expanding group of hobbyists is keen to explore this new technology. In the time-honored tradition of introducing new technologies, many libraries are considering purchasing a 3-D printer. Jason Griffey, an early enthusiast of 3-D printing, has researched the marketplace and seen several systems first hand at the Consumer Electronics Show. In this report he introduces readers to the 3-D printing marketplace, covering such topics as:

How fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing work
Basic terminology such as build plate, spool, nozzle hot end, direct extruder, and Bowden extruder
Plastics used, such as ABS, PLA, and others
Descriptions, price ranges, and filament specs for 3-D printers from MakerBot, Printrbot, Solidoodle, and other manufacturers
Suggested staff skills for performing basic maintenance tasks
Where to find both ready-to-use designs and the software for customizing, from beginning to advanced systems