It can be incredibly inconvenient when you’re away from home and suddenly realize you need to print a document. Whether it’s a boarding pass, a crucial form, or study materials, the need for a printer can arise unexpectedly. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where can I go to print something?” when you’re out and about or don’t own a printer, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are numerous accessible places where you can print documents, many of which you might even frequent regularly!
Reliable Places to Print Documents When You’re Away From Home
So, when you find yourself needing a hard copy and without your personal printer, where should you head? Here are some dependable locations to consider:
1. Public and University Libraries
People browsing books in a quiet public library
Yes, libraries, your treasure troves of knowledge, often provide printing services too. While it’s rare to find a public library offering free printing these days, the fees are generally very reasonable. A quick visit to your local library’s website should give you the specifics on their printing costs and procedures. Many libraries now offer wireless printing, allowing you to send documents from your phone or laptop.
Don’t forget about university libraries! If you’re a student or can access a university campus, their libraries also typically offer printing services, usually for a small fee. It’s always wise to check their visitor policies and printing availability beforehand, especially if you’re not a student of that particular institution.
2. Local Print and Copy Shops
A woman assisting a customer at the counter of a print and copy shop
While they might not be on every corner anymore, print and copy shops are still around and specialize in exactly what you need: printing and document services. These businesses are designed to cater to individuals and businesses needing on-demand printing and copying.
Many of these print shops are locally owned, so choosing them supports your local economy. Prices can vary depending on location and the complexity of your job, so it’s worth checking online for shops in your vicinity and perhaps calling for a quick quote if you have specific requirements. They often offer services beyond basic printing, such as binding, laminating, and large format printing.
3. Shipping and Courier Services
The exterior signage of a UPS Store
Major shipping and courier centers like FedEx and UPS are another convenient option. These locations frequently provide printing services alongside their shipping offerings. Whether you need to print a large banner or just a few pages of a document, they can usually accommodate your needs. Some locations are specifically branded as “business centers” offering a wider range of services, but most branches can handle basic printing requests.
Fees will apply, and the cost will depend on the number of pages and possibly the type of paper and ink used. It’s important to remember that these are public business spaces. While convenient, they might not be ideal for printing highly sensitive or confidential documents, as computers and printers are accessible to staff and sometimes other customers.
4. Your Workplace (With Permission)
A woman using a shared office printer in a modern office space
If your office has printers available and your workplace has a relaxed policy regarding personal use, you could consider asking for permission to print a few personal documents. The worst that can happen is a polite “no.” You might be pleasantly surprised with a “yes, go ahead.” Always ask first to maintain professional courtesy and avoid any misunderstandings about company resource usage.
Privacy is a key consideration in an office environment. Unless you have a dedicated printer, office printers are usually in communal areas. This means your printouts could be visible to others. Avoid printing anything confidential on a shared office printer to protect your personal information.
5. Office Supply Retailers
A man browsing printer options in the printer aisle of an office supply store
Big box office supply stores like Office Depot and Staples, as well as smaller local office supply stores, generally offer printing services. Many provide online ordering where you can upload your documents and then pick them up in-store. Alternatively, you can often bring a USB drive or access your documents via their in-store computers and print on the spot.
Beyond printing, these stores often offer finishing services like binding, stapling, and lamination. Some may even offer home delivery of print jobs, but this is generally less cost-effective for small, urgent print needs. These stores are a good all-in-one solution for printing and related document services.
6. Consider an Affordable Home Printer for the Future
A black and white laser printer efficiently printing graphs on paper
While the above options are excellent for occasional printing needs, or if you are frequently near these locations, if you find yourself needing to print documents more regularly, it might be time to consider investing in a home printer.
“Affordable” doesn’t have to mean low quality. Exploring refurbished printers can be a smart way to get a high-quality printer at a significantly reduced price compared to a brand-new model. Reputable sources, like inkjets.com, offer refurbished printers that are in excellent working condition and often come with genuine ink cartridges, providing a cost-effective and convenient long-term printing solution.
