It can be incredibly inconvenient when you suddenly realize you need a document printed while you’re away from your home or office. Whether it’s travel documents, a last-minute presentation, or simply needing a hard copy of an important file, finding a place to print something quickly becomes a priority. Fortunately, you have more options than you might think. If you’re wondering “Where To Go To Print Something,” we’ve compiled a helpful guide outlining various locations where you can get your documents printed, even when you don’t have your own printer readily available. You might be surprised at how many of these places are already part of your daily routine.
Top Spots to Print Documents When You’re Away From Home
So, exactly where can you go to print something when you’re not near your own printer? Here are several reliable options to consider:
1. Public and University Libraries
People browsing books in the aisles of a public library
Yes, libraries are still incredibly relevant in the digital age, and most offer printing services. Public libraries are a fantastic resource, and while free printing is rare, the fees are usually very affordable, often just pennies per page. To be sure, it’s best to check your local library’s website or call ahead to confirm their printing services and associated costs.
University libraries also provide printing facilities, typically for a small fee. If you’re a student, faculty member, or even a visitor, university libraries can be a convenient option. However, access for non-students might be limited, so verifying their policies beforehand is always a good idea. Libraries, both public and university, offer a quiet and often accessible environment to handle your printing needs.
2. Local Print and Copy Shops
Woman assisting a customer at the counter of a print shop
While less ubiquitous than they once were, print and copy shops are still around and specialize in, as their name suggests, printing and copying services. These businesses are designed to cater to individuals and businesses needing document services on demand. Supporting these local businesses is an added bonus.
Prices at print and copy shops can vary depending on location, the type of printing (black and white vs. color), and the volume of printing. It’s wise to search online for “print shops near me” or “copy shops near me” to find establishments in your vicinity and potentially compare their pricing or services offered on their websites or by calling directly. Many offer services beyond basic printing, such as binding, laminating, and large format printing.
3. Shipping and Courier Services
UPS Store storefront sign under a blue sky
Major shipping and courier companies like FedEx and UPS often have business centers within their retail locations that provide printing services. These services can range from large-scale printing like banners and posters to simple document printouts for reports or papers. Even branches not specifically designated as business centers will often accommodate smaller printing requests.
Keep in mind that these are commercial establishments, so printing will come at a cost. The price will depend on the number of pages and the services required. Also, consider privacy when using public computers and printers in such locations, especially if you are printing sensitive documents. It’s generally advisable to avoid printing highly confidential information in public spaces.
4. Your Workplace (With Permission)
A woman using a printer in a modern office setting
If your office has printers and your workplace culture is reasonably flexible, you could ask your supervisor or office manager for permission to print a few personal documents. The worst that can happen is a polite refusal. You might be pleasantly surprised with an approval. Always ask for permission before using company resources for personal use.
Privacy is a key consideration in an office environment. Unless you have a dedicated printer, office printers are usually in shared areas. Be mindful of leaving sensitive documents unattended in the printer tray. If you are granted permission to use the office printer, it’s best to reserve it for non-confidential documents.
5. Office Supply Retailers
A man shopping inside an office supply store looking at products
Stores like Office Depot, Staples, and even smaller local office supply shops typically offer printing services. Many allow you to upload documents online and pick them up in-store, providing a convenient online-to-offline printing solution. Alternatively, you can visit the store with a USB drive or access your documents online at their self-service stations for same-day printing.
Beyond printing, office supply stores often offer additional services like binding, stapling, hole-punching, and lamination. Some might even offer home delivery of your printouts, though this is usually not cost-effective for small, urgent print jobs. These stores are a good all-in-one solution for various document needs.
While the above options are excellent for occasional or urgent printing needs, or if you regularly visit these locations, frequent printing might warrant a different approach. If you find yourself constantly searching for “where to go to print something,” consider this long-term solution:
6. Invest in an Affordable Home Printer
A black and white laser printer printing a document with graphs
When we say “affordable printer,” we’re pointing you towards options like refurbished printers. Refurbished printers offer a way to get high-quality printing capabilities at a significantly lower price than brand new models. Reputable sources, like inkjets.com, offer refurbished printers in excellent condition, often including genuine OEM ink cartridges, making it a cost-effective and convenient long-term printing solution for your home or small office. Investing in your own printer can eliminate the need to constantly search for external printing services and provide immediate access to printing whenever you need it.
