By Heather Fabritze
News Co-Editor
The Clifton M. Miller Memorial Library’s previous printing contract with Ink expired at
the end of last academic year, which left the Washington College campus temporarily
without personal printing options.
They signed their original contract with the company Ink before the start of the
pandemic, which allowed them three SmartStations. These were stationed in the library,
Sophie’s Café, and Hodson Hall.
According to Clifton H. Miller Dean of Library and Academic Technology Mary Alice
Ball, Ink was a “small, very cutting edge solution.”
The original printing kiosks were designed to make printing accessible via electronic
devices and USBs. Ink’s website describes the kiosks and their other products as a
“sophisticated, streamlined printing experience for the next generation.”
However, according to Ball, the company and the processes required to run the
stations were unable to survive the difficulties of the pandemic.
The library has since switched printing vendors, signing a new contract with Hilyard’s
Business Solutions. The incoming replacements are regulation Sharp photocopiers that
one would find in a standard office.
Software features of the Sharp brand are enhanced quality and speed in terms of
printing. Mobile options, user-friendly interface, automated print queues, and having an
ID card tied to an account are also added benefits.
Ball said that there would be four printers total, three of which would be in the same
locations as the kiosks. They placed the final one in the John S. Toll Science Center as
it is often populated with working students.
Configuration of the printers began Friday, Sept 15, with the physical installation
occurring a few days prior.