Could the 3D Printer save the public library service?

An interesting article by Ian Anstice on Public Library News about the possibilities and probabilities of maker spaces and 3D printers in public libraries.  Here's  a bit.

"The theory goes that public libraries will provide great spaces for 3D printers.  Libraries have always provided material for the benefit of the community for those who cannot afford it and 3D printing, on the face of it, seems to fit right in...

...The other selling point for libraries in this is that we have friendly staff who will be able to help people in learning how to use them. That may be so in some branches of course.  However, I’m willing to bet that right now the majority of staff working in libraries have not even heard of 3D printers.  A lot of library staff frankly need to be more highly trained in Word, let alone the next disruptive technology. "

Read the whole article; there's a real twist in the tail!