Highland County Public Library to Host 3-D Printing with Dad Event

Youth aged six and up are invited to grab their father figure and head to the Highland County Public Library on October 8 at 6 p.m. to learn all about 3-D printing. Toysinbox 3D Printing located in Wellesley, MA will present the program, bringing all materials required for an evening of fun. Their 3D Printing Exploration program is about one hour long providing children the opportunity to use a Makerbot Replicator2 3D printer with the help of a supervising adult. A maximum of 20 students can participate, and reservations must be made in advance.

A parent can fill out the form to register by emailing programs@highlandlibrary.com or coming into the library. Reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis with a wait list for cancellations. During the program, Toysinbox associates will give a short presentation about 3D printing. The participants will learn how a 3D printer works and then use the Makerbot 3D printers to make a cute, small 3D object in multiple colors to take home for themselves. 

The Highland County Public Library is intent on providing these programs to allow students to see the library as a place of both fun and learning. They host a weekly after school program, monthly family movie nights, teen art and game sessions, a chess club, and Dungeons and Dragons club. Through the newly formed Teen Advisory Council, older students have say in the library’s collection as well as programming for all ages.  

Many men serve as father figures without legal recognition as such, and these men play a huge impact in a child’s life. In numerous studies, positive father involvement is associated with children’s higher academic achievement; greater school readiness; stronger math and verbal skills; greater emotional security; higher self-esteem; fewer behavioral problems; and greater social competence than found among children who do not have caring, involved father figures in their life.

The Highland County Public Library is partnering with the Highland County Department of Social Services for the 3D Printing with Dad event on October 8. Several other programs for families are also in the works. Snacks will be provided during the event. For questions, email programs@highlandlibrary.com.