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, leaving the Washington College campus temporarily without personal printing options.
They signed their original contract with the company 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 plan to install the final one in the John S. Toll Science Center as it is often populated with working students.
According to Ball, configuration of the printers is estimated to begin Friday, Sept 15. The HelpDesk will send out an update to the campus when they are tested and ready for use.