RIDGEFIELD — The device has been used for stem cell research, building airplanes and even in zero-gravity by NASA astronauts. But these days, all residents need to do to use a 3-D printer is go to their local library.
In Ridgefield, library cardholders can reserve free time with the 3-D printer after completing a 90-minute orientation. Several residents joined Dorothy Pawlowski, head of adult services, on Saturday morning for the latest orientation. Orientations are offered once or twice a month.
The addition of 3-D printers to libraries across Connecticut is part of the growing “makerspace” trend, in which public libraries set aside part of the building for a collaborative workspace for art, technology or community service projects.
Pawlowski said the printer is just one way libraries are trying to…
