Primary Research group has published Survey of 3D Printing in the Library, ISBN 978-1-57440-280-3.

The 50+ page study presents detailed data on commentary from 30 academic, public, special and school libraries about their experience with 3D printers. The report helps librarians to answer questions such as: What brands and models are librarians considering and which libraries are buying which brands and models? Are the printers purchased or leased? How much are libraries paying for their 3D printers? How heavily used are 3D printers by library patrons? How much staff time is consumed by 3D printing? How much are materials costs for 3D printers? What is the best way to publicize the availability about 3D printing. How long is the typical 3D printing session? What are library patrons making with their 3D printers? What kind of software are libraries buying to go along with their 3D printers?

Just a few of the report's many findings are that:

• The libraries sampled spent a mean of $3,244 to acquire their initial stock of 3D printers
• 62.5 percent of libraries deploying more than one 3D printer have offered classes to library patrons on 3D printing
• For public libraries, the mean library patron 3D printer session was 52.67 minutes with a median of 45 minutes

Data is broken out separately by size and type of library, my number of 3D printers deployed, and other variables. Data is sourced from major academic libraries, as well as public, schools, and special libraries, from those using 3D printing in connection with academic research and courses, and for those using it for hobbyist and recreational pursuits.

The study is available directly from Primary Research Group and also from major distributors of books and research reports. Print and PDF versions are available for $75.00. Site licenses are also available. For a table of contents, free excerpt, and participants list, visit our website at www.PrimaryResearch.com.