It can be incredibly frustrating when you’re away from your home or office and suddenly realize you urgently need to print a document. Whether it’s a boarding pass before a flight, a crucial contract for a meeting, or simply directions to a destination, the need to print can arise unexpectedly. If you’re thinking, “Where Can I Go To Print Something?”, don’t worry, you’re not alone, and there are plenty of convenient options available. You might be surprised to discover that many of these printing locations are places you frequent regularly.
Top Locations to Print Documents When You’re Away From Home
Finding a place to print documents shouldn’t be a stressful ordeal. Here are several readily accessible locations where you can get your documents printed quickly and efficiently:
1. Public and University Libraries: Your Community Printing Hubs
people in a public library
When you think about accessible community resources, public libraries should be high on your list. And yes, most public libraries offer printing services. They are generally equipped with computers connected to printers, allowing you to easily print documents. While it’s rare to find free printing at public libraries these days, the fees are typically very affordable, often just pennies per page. It’s wise to check your local library’s website or call ahead for specific printing costs and procedures.
University libraries are another excellent option, particularly if you are a student or have access to a university campus. Similar to public libraries, university libraries usually provide printing services for a small fee to students and sometimes to visitors. If you’re near a university, it’s worth checking their library’s accessibility and printing options.
2. Print and Copy Shops: Dedicated Printing Experts
woman working in a copy store
While perhaps not as ubiquitous as they once were, print and copy shops are still valuable resources for printing and document services. Businesses like FedEx Office, UPS Store, and local print shops specialize in printing, copying, and document finishing. These stores are designed to handle a variety of printing needs, from simple documents to more complex projects like banners and presentations.
Often locally owned, these print and copy shops offer personalized service and can be a great way to support local businesses. Pricing can vary based on location and the complexity of your printing job, so it’s always a good idea to check online for locations and price estimates in your area. Many of these establishments also offer online ordering, allowing you to upload your documents and pick them up in-store, saving you time.
3. Shipping and Courier Centers: Convenient Printing Alongside Shipping Services
UPS store sign
Major shipping and courier centers like FedEx and UPS not only handle package delivery but also provide printing services. Many of their locations function as business centers, equipped to handle various printing needs, from large format prints to simple document printouts. Whether you need to print a banner for an event or just a few pages of a document, these locations are generally well-equipped to assist.
Keep in mind that while convenient, these are business establishments, and printing costs will apply. The price will depend on the number of pages and the type of printing required (color vs. black and white, paper type, etc.). Also, consider that these public-access computers and printers might not be ideal for printing highly sensitive or confidential documents due to security considerations.
4. Your Workplace: Potentially an Option with Permission
woman using an office printer
If you’re employed in an office setting with access to printers, your workplace could be a convenient option, provided you obtain permission first. If your company’s policy allows for reasonable personal use of office equipment, you might be able to print a few pages. It’s always best to ask your supervisor or office manager before using company printers for personal documents to avoid any misunderstandings.
However, be mindful of privacy when printing personal documents in the office. Office printers are often located in common areas, and there’s a risk of others seeing your printouts. Unless you have a secure, personal printer, avoid printing sensitive information in a shared office environment.
5. Office Supply Stores: Your One-Stop Shop for Printing and Supplies
man inside an office supply store
Retail office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot are excellent resources for printing services. They typically offer both online and in-store printing options. You can upload your documents online and pick them up at your convenience, or visit the store with a USB drive or access your documents via their in-store computers for same-day printing.
Beyond basic printing, office supply stores often provide additional document services such as binding, stapling, lamination, and even faxing. Some locations might also offer home delivery of your printouts, although this might not be cost-effective for small, urgent print jobs. For a range of document services in one place, office supply stores are a strong contender.
6. Consider an Affordable Home Printer for Regular Printing Needs
black printer printing graphs
While the above options are perfect for occasional or urgent printing needs when you’re out and about, if you find yourself frequently needing to print documents, investing in an affordable home printer might be the most practical long-term solution.
When considering affordability, refurbished printers are an excellent option. Refurbished printers offer the quality of a new printer but at a significantly reduced price. Reputable sources like inkjets.com offer refurbished printers that are in like-new condition and even include genuine OEM ink cartridges, making them a smart and economical choice for your regular printing needs.
By exploring these options, you’ll never have to wonder “where can I go to print something?” again. You’ll be well-prepared whenever the need to print arises, whether you’re at home, traveling, or simply out and about.
