It’s a common scenario: you’re out and about, or working remotely without your home office setup, and suddenly you need to print a document. The realization that you need a hard copy can be frustrating if you’re not near your printer. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “where can I go to print something?”, you’re in the right place. Fortunately, there are numerous convenient locations where you can access printing services, even if you don’t own a printer or are away from your usual workspace. You might be surprised at how many of these options are already part of your daily routine!
Top Locations to Print Documents When You’re on the Go
So, Where Can You Go To Print Something when you’re away from your personal printer? Here’s a detailed rundown of readily available options:
1. Public Libraries: A Community Hub for Printing
People browsing books in a public library
Thinking about where to print documents often leads to the most accessible community resource: public libraries. Yes, public libraries almost universally offer printing services. They are designed to be community hubs, and providing access to essential services like printing is part of their mission.
While it’s rare to find free printing at public libraries, the fees are typically very affordable. You can expect to pay a small per-page fee, often just a few cents for black and white prints and slightly more for color. To confirm availability and specific costs, it’s best to check your local library’s website or give them a quick call. Many libraries also offer computer access for a small fee or for free with a library card, allowing you to access your documents online, make edits, and then print.
University and college libraries also provide printing services, generally available to students and sometimes to visitors. If you’re a student, your university library is an incredibly convenient place to print assignments, research papers, or any other documents you need. Similar to public libraries, fees usually apply, and it’s advisable to check the library’s website for details, especially if you are not a student and plan to use their services.
2. Print and Copy Shops: Dedicated Printing Professionals
Woman assisting a customer at a print and copy shop
Print and copy shops, while perhaps less ubiquitous than in the past, are still a fantastic resource when considering where can I go to print something with professional quality and service. These businesses specialize in printing and document services and are equipped to handle a variety of needs, from simple black and white copies to color printing, binding, laminating, and more.
Many print and copy shops are locally owned businesses, so using them supports your local economy. Prices can vary depending on location and the services you require, so it’s worth checking online for print shops in your vicinity and comparing their offerings. Services often extend beyond basic printing to include document finishing, large format printing (for posters or banners), and even graphic design assistance. For more complex printing needs, a dedicated print and copy shop is often the best solution.
3. Shipping and Courier Centers: Convenient for Quick Print Jobs
UPS Store storefront sign displaying printing services
Major shipping and courier services like FedEx and UPS are another practical answer to the question, “where to print something near me?”. These centers frequently offer printing as part of their business services. Whether you need to print a large banner, presentation materials, or just a few pages of documents, many locations can accommodate your needs.
Some branches are specifically designated as business centers, offering a wider array of services, but even standard locations usually have printing capabilities for smaller jobs. Keep in mind that these are businesses, and printing is a service they provide for a fee. The cost will depend on the number of pages and the type of printing (color, paper stock, etc.).
Privacy is an important consideration when using shipping centers for printing. As public business spaces with shared computers and printers, they might not be ideal for printing highly sensitive or confidential documents. However, for general documents that don’t contain personal private information, they provide a readily accessible printing option.
4. Your Workplace: A Potentially Free (but Considerate) Option
Woman using a shared office printer in a modern office
If you’re employed in an office setting, your workplace printer might be an option for printing personal documents. Before you assume this is a free-for-all, it’s crucial to ask for permission. Company printers are intended for business use, and policies vary significantly from one workplace to another. It’s always best to politely inquire with your supervisor or office manager about the possibility of printing a few personal pages.
The best-case scenario is getting an affirmative “Of course, go ahead!” However, be prepared for a “No” or a more restrictive policy. Even if permission is granted, be mindful of paper and ink usage, and avoid printing large documents. Workplace printers are most suitable for very occasional, small personal print jobs.
Similar to shipping centers, privacy can be a concern. Office printers are often in communal areas, and you should be cautious about printing sensitive information that others might see. If you are granted permission, use the office printer responsibly and only for non-sensitive materials.
5. Office Supply Stores: Retailers with Printing Solutions
Man browsing products inside an office supply retail store
Office supply stores like Office Depot, Staples, and even smaller local stationery stores often offer printing services. These retailers understand the needs of businesses and individuals for document solutions, and printing is a natural extension of their offerings.
Many office supply stores provide online printing services where you can upload your documents, customize your print options, and then pick up the finished prints in-store. Alternatively, you can visit the store directly with a USB drive or access your documents via their in-store computers. Same-day printing is usually available for most standard requests.
Beyond basic printing, office supply stores often provide a range of document finishing services like binding, stapling, hole-punching, and lamination. Some may even offer home delivery of your prints, although this is generally not cost-effective for small print jobs. For a combination of printing and finishing services, office supply stores are a convenient and comprehensive option.
6. Hotels: A Service for Travelers
For those traveling and wondering, “where can I print something while traveling?”, hotels often provide business centers or printing facilities for guests. This is particularly helpful for printing boarding passes, presentation materials for business trips, or any documents needed while away from home.
The availability and cost of printing services in hotels vary. Higher-end hotels may offer complimentary printing as a guest service, while others might charge a fee. It’s best to inquire at the front desk about printing options and any associated costs. Hotel business centers typically have computers and printers available for guest use, offering a convenient solution for travelers needing to print documents on the go.
When Buying a Printer Makes Sense
While all these locations offer solutions for printing documents outside of your home or office, frequent printing needs might suggest a more permanent solution. If you find yourself regularly searching for “where can I go to print something?”, it might be time to consider purchasing your own printer.
Black printer in an office environment printing graphs
Purchasing an affordable printer, especially a refurbished printer, can be a cost-effective long-term solution. Refurbished printers offer the quality of new printers at a significantly reduced price. Reputable sources like inkjets.com offer refurbished printers that are in like-new condition and often include genuine OEM ink cartridges. Investing in a printer at home eliminates the need to search for external printing services and provides the convenience of printing documents whenever you need them.
In conclusion, whether you need to print occasionally or frequently, there are numerous accessible options available. From public libraries and print shops to shipping centers and office supply stores, you’re never far from a printing solution. And if your printing needs become regular, consider the convenience and cost-effectiveness of having an affordable printer at home.
