News / GTA

Toronto Public Library goes digital with 3D printing, technology hubs

Three "Digital Innovation Hubs" will open in the GTA in 2014, as Toronto’s library system finds its footing in an increasingly paperless world.

One of two 3D printers that will be available for public use at the Toronto Reference Library in its Digital Innovation Hub, set to open Feb. 4.

/ SUPPLIED PHOTO

One of two 3D printers that will be available for public use at the Toronto Reference Library in its Digital Innovation Hub, set to open Feb. 4.

Want to create a unique figurine? Need a new smartphone case? Forget a pottery class or electronics store, just head to Toronto’s Reference Library.

For about the cost of a Starbucks latte, you’ll be able to make customized objects like iPhone cases using one of two 3D printers that will be available as of Feb. 4. The machines are among a dozen new technologies featured in the branch’s Digital Innovation Hub, the first of three set to open in the GTA in 2014.

The hubs are part of the Toronto Public Library’s strategic plan, as the traditional houses for books and literature try to reposition themselves in an increasingly digital environment.

Libraries are about “helping people understand their world,” said Paul Trumphour, the reference library’s access and information manager.

“More recently, that includes the digital world.”

Alongside 3D printers, visitors to the reference library, as well as the soon-to-be-opened Fort York branch, will be able to experiment with video cameras and green screens, audio equipment and tablets, among other devices. The technology-oriented spaces will be supported through classes on Photoshop and 3D design, monthly meetups on topics such as robotics and wearable tech, and partnerships with Toronto’s “maker” community.

Trumphour said there will also be a focus on teaching computer programming, one of the skills seen as highly desirable by today’s employers.

“We want them to have the opportunity to say, ‘Hey, this is something I’m interested in! Maybe I can turn this into a job,’” said Trumphour.

Trumphour added that many people are also curious about 3D printers, both on an intellectual level — “how do they work?” — and on a practical level — “what can I make with them?”

The commercial printers in the hubs cost about $2,500 and won’t be able to take on some of the cutting-edge print jobs currently making headlines (you will not be able to print a life-size version of a fetus, or a prosthetic body part).

Visitors will be able to use the printers for a small fee, said Trumphour. Each minute up to the two-hour time limit costs 5 cents, with a base fee of $1. For example, an iPhone case printed in about 90 minutes would cost around $5.50.

Trumphour said the technology in the reference library’s hub cost $44,000, and was financed through the operating budget as well as fundraising. Figures for Fort York and the hub opening in Scarborough later this year were not available.

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