Optimizing The Library Printer: How Automating The Print Queue Can Lead To Better Service

Some people forget that libraries aren’t just for bookworms anymore; they’re where half the town goes when their tech gives up. Public libraries provide patrons with a wide range of technology devices and specialized equipment that they can use to browse the Internet, create content, or make copies of documents for their personal use. A recent study has revealed that printing is one of the most in demand services in most libraries, and it was found that 71 percent of public libraries offer wireless or digital printing, while 22 percent offer large format printing. Most medium-sized libraries can easily print between 200,000 to 300,000 pages per year, so to keep up with the consistent demand, it's recommended to switch from a manual printing system to an automated printing process.

Automating printing queues not only helps to reduce waste, but it also enhances user experience and accessibility. More importantly, it can improve operational efficiency and free up library staff to provide effective, human-centered service to patrons. Here's why automating the print queue can lead to better service in public libraries.

Some people think that library jobs are a piece of cake since staff are often portrayed to be sitting quietly or just reading books all day. But the truth is, many individuals who work in libraries experience high levels of stress. Factors like interactions with demanding or unreasonable patrons, understaffing, burnout, and being constantly asked to do more than their primary tasks can cause library staff to feel stressed or anxious. In fact, according to a study, 64 percent of professional librarians believed that they were more prone to stress than others because they were engaged in additional responsibilities other than their main tasks.

Although printing is considered to be an essential part of library services, it presents various challenges, such as frequent technical issues, that can significantly add to the staff's workload and stress levels. Using an intuitive printing software can help prevent library workers from being overwhelmed with printing issues and tasks, as users will be able to upload, customize, pay for, and recover their print jobs without staff intervention. Adding web to print software could also allow patrons to design products such as brochures or business cards without having to ask library staff for assistance. These tech solutions can significantly reduce the staff's manual workload so they can devote their time to other core professional duties.

Library staff are always willing to help people find reference materials, no matter if it's for academic or personal use. However, if some patrons need access to multiple resources so they can copy or print out a few pages from each one, it may be better for public libraries to use modern systems, such as an Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC). This allows users to search the library's entire collection, including physical books, audio/visual materials, online databases, and e-books. With OPAC, patrons don't have to look through countless shelves or go on multiple websites just to find what they need. Since it effectively streamlines the search and retrieval process, the system saves time and effort both for the user and the library staff.

For security, public libraries only provide access to their OPAC system through their inhouse computers. These computers are connected to designated printers, and one can retrieve the printed material after payment, or by manually releasing their documents when they are at the printer (if it is publicly accessible). If a user is planning to print a lot of pages though, there's the option to bring a small personal printer as some libraries will allow this device to be brought in. If you're about to do a research-heavy project that entails you to print multiple pages from the OPAC, keep in mind that the staff may or may not allow you to connect your own printer to the OPAC terminal, so ask first to be on the safe side.

Automating the print queue can give users faster and more convenient service, and easier access to all the materials that they need. For library staff, it can result in increased efficiency and productivity, as well as reduced manual workload and stress, making it an excellent solution that can lead to better and more proactive service.

We will be back with another interesting article from the library world soon!

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Nina is a passionate writer and editor who likes to cover a variety of topics.