Need to print documents but don’t have a printer at home or while traveling? Finding a public printer nearby can be essential for various tasks, from printing important travel documents to handling last-minute paperwork. Fortunately, residents and visitors in Washington, D.C. have convenient and free access to printing services at all locations of the DC Public Library. Beyond just printing, these libraries also offer copying, scanning, and computer access, making them a valuable resource for the community.
Free Printing, Copying, and Scanning at DC Public Libraries
DC Public Libraries provide a range of essential services to the public completely free of charge, including access to computers, printing, copying, and scanning. Whether you need to quickly print a document, make copies, or scan important papers, the library system is equipped to assist you.
Computer Access for Your Printing Needs
Every library location offers computers for public use. These computers allow you to access the internet, manage your documents, and, most importantly, prepare your files for printing. You can sign up for substantial 70-minute sessions or utilize shorter 15-minute express sessions, depending on your needs and availability. Computer access is readily available on a first-come, first-served basis at all library branches.
In-Person Printing Services
For those who prefer to print directly, DC Public Libraries offer in-person printing from library computers. This straightforward service allows you to print your documents immediately after preparation. It’s a quick and easy solution when you are physically at a library location and need a hard copy of your files right away.
Remote Printing: Print from Anywhere
For added convenience, DC Public Libraries feature a remote printing option. This service is especially useful if you need to print a document from your own device or from a location outside the library. To use remote printing, simply email your documents to the designated email address of your preferred library pick-up location.
To utilize the remote printing service, please follow these simple steps:
- Send your print job as an email to the email address of the specific DC Public Library location where you wish to pick up your prints.
- Ensure the subject line of your email contains only the word “PRINT” in capital letters.
- You can print up to 20 pages per day at no cost.
- Your print jobs will be held for 48 hours from the time you send the email.
- Printing services are available every day the library is open.
- Documents sent for printing on Thursday and Friday will be available until closing time on Monday.
- When you arrive at your chosen library location, provide the email address you used to send the print job to the library staff for verification.
- Library staff will then retrieve your print job for you.
- Please note that documents are printed as-is on 8.5” x 11” paper and will be double-sided. It is important to double-check your documents before sending them, as library staff cannot make any formatting changes or edits.
Copying and Scanning Services
In addition to printing, DC Public Libraries also provide self-service copying and scanning facilities. You can copy or scan up to 20 pages per day for free. Scanning documents is simple and allows you to send scanned files to an email address. Remember to check your email’s “Junk” or “Spam” folder if you do not see your scanned documents in your inbox, as some email providers may filter these types of emails.
With a DC Public Library card or a DC One Card, you can take full advantage of these free services, printing up to 20 pages per day per library account. These pages can be printed in either color or black and white, offering flexibility for all your printing needs. DC Public Libraries are your accessible and free solution when you are searching for a “Public Printer Near Me” in Washington D.C., and so much more.
