Printing is an essential part of the student experience at West Virginia University (WVU). Whether it’s printing lecture notes, research papers, or flyers for campus events, having access to reliable and efficient printing services is crucial for every student. In this blog article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to printing services at WVU, covering everything from locations and prices to tips for optimizing your printing experience.
Understanding Printing Options at WVU
When it comes to printing options at WVU, students have several choices that cater to their different needs and preferences. Understanding these options will help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth printing experience throughout your time at WVU.
On-Campus Printing Labs
WVU provides several on-campus printing labs equipped with high-quality printers and a range of services. These labs are conveniently located across campus, making it easy for students to access them. Whether you need to print a few pages or a large project, the on-campus printing labs offer a variety of options, including black and white printing, color printing, and specialty printing services.
One of the advantages of using the on-campus printing labs is the availability of knowledgeable staff who can assist you with any printing-related questions or issues. They can help you choose the appropriate printer, provide guidance on print settings, and troubleshoot any problems you may encounter.
Library Printers
The WVU libraries also offer printing services for students. These printers are conveniently located within the libraries, providing easy access to students who spend a significant amount of time studying and researching in these spaces.
Library printers offer the same range of services as the on-campus printing labs, including black and white printing, color printing, and specialty printing options. Additionally, some libraries may have printers specifically designated for printing resources from the library’s collection or for printing materials related to specific disciplines.
Remote Printing Services
WVU also offers remote printing services, allowing students to send print jobs from their personal devices and collect them at designated locations on campus. This option provides added convenience and flexibility, as it eliminates the need to physically visit a printing lab or library to print your documents.
To use remote printing services, you will need to install the necessary software or app on your device. Once installed, you can easily send your print jobs to the designated printers and pick them up at your convenience. This option is particularly useful for students who prefer to work from their laptops or tablets and need to print documents on the go.
Summary:
Understanding the different printing options at WVU is essential for students to make the most out of the available resources. Whether you choose to use the on-campus printing labs, library printers, or remote printing services, each option offers its own benefits and considerations. Exploring and utilizing these options will ensure a seamless printing experience throughout your academic journey at WVU.
Printing Locations and Hours
Knowing where to find printing locations on campus and their operating hours is crucial for students who rely on printing services. Here, we will provide a comprehensive list of the printing locations at WVU, along with their addresses, operating hours, and available services.
Mountainlair Printing Services
The Mountainlair, WVU’s student union, is home to one of the most accessible printing locations on campus. Located on the ground floor, this printing service offers a wide range of options, including black and white printing, color printing, and specialty printing services like large-format printing for posters and banners.
Mountainlair Printing Services operates from Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The extended operating hours make it convenient for students to access printing services even after regular class hours.
Evansdale Library Printers
The Evansdale Library, located on the Evansdale campus, is another popular printing location at WVU. Equipped with a variety of printers, students can choose between black and white or color printing, depending on their needs.
The Evansdale Library printing services are available during the library’s operating hours. Typically, the library is open from Monday to Thursday, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and on Fridays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is important to note that the operating hours may vary during holidays, breaks, and exam periods, so it is advisable to check the library’s website for any updates or changes.
Other Campus Printing Locations
In addition to the Mountainlair and Evansdale Library, WVU offers printing services at various other locations across campus. Some notable locations include the Downtown Campus Library, the Health Sciences Library, and the Engineering Sciences Building.
Each of these locations has its own operating hours, which may vary depending on the day of the week and the time of the year. It is recommended to check the specific operating hours of these locations on the WVU website or by contacting the respective libraries or departments.
Summary:
WVU provides multiple printing locations across its campuses, ensuring that students have easy access to printing services. Whether you need to print a few pages or require specialty printing options, knowing the locations and their operating hours will help you plan your printing needs effectively. Familiarize yourself with the various printing locations on campus to ensure a seamless and convenient printing experience at WVU.
Printing Costs and Payment Methods
Understanding the costs associated with printing at WVU is essential for students to manage their budgets effectively. In this section, we will delve into the pricing structure of WVU’s printing services, covering costs per page for different printing options and available payment methods.
Costs per Page
The cost per page for printing at WVU varies depending on the type of printing you choose. Generally, black and white printing is less expensive compared to color printing or specialty printing options.
For black and white printing, the cost per page typically ranges from $0.05 to $0.10. This pricing structure encourages students to print responsibly and avoid excessive printing. Color printing, on the other hand, comes at a higher cost, ranging from $0.20 to $0.50 per page. Specialty printing services, such as large-format printing for posters or banners, may have additional costs based on the size and complexity of the print job.
Payment Methods
WVU offers several convenient payment methods for students to pay for their printing services. The most common payment method is Mountie Bounty, which is a prepaid declining balance account tied to your WVU ID card. By depositing funds into your Mountie Bounty account, you can easily pay for printing services without the need for cash or credit cards.
In addition to Mountie Bounty, some printing locations also accept cash or credit cards as alternative payment methods. However, it is important to note that not all locations may accept these payment methods, so it is advisable to check with the specific printing location beforehand.
Summary:
Understanding the costs associated with printing at WVU and the available payment methods will help students plan and manage their printing expenses effectively. By being aware of the costs per page for different printing options and utilizing convenient payment methods like Mountie Bounty, students can ensure a smooth and hassle-free printing experience at WVU.
Printing Guidelines and Best Practices
Printing efficiently and responsibly not only benefits the environment but also helps students save money and time. In this section, we will provide useful guidelines and best practices for optimizing your printing experience at WVU.
Minimizing Printing Waste
One of the key principles of responsible printing is minimizing waste. Here are some tips to help you reduce unnecessary printing and conserve resources:
Print Only When Necessary
Before hitting the print button, consider whether you truly need a physical copy of the document. Whenever possible, try to read and review documents digitally to save paper and ink.
Print Duplex (Double-Sided)
Utilize the duplex (double-sided) printing option whenever appropriate. Printing on both sides of the paper not only reduces paper waste but also saves money on printing costs.
Adjust Print Settings
Optimize your print settings to minimize ink usage. Select the “draft” or “economy” mode when printing documents that do not require high print quality. Additionally, consider using grayscale printing instead of color printing for materials that do not require color.
Proofread Before Printing
Proofread your documents carefully before printing to avoid reprints due to errors. This simple step can save both ink and paper.
Optimizing Print Layout and Formatting
Proper layout and formatting can help you optimize your printing experience and make the most out of the available resources. Consider the following tips:
Use Print Preview
Before printing, always use the print preview function to ensure that the document appears as you intended. This will help you catch any formatting issues or unnecessary pages.
Adjust Margins and Font Sizes
Optimize your document’s margins and font sizes to fit more content on each page. However, be mindful of readability and ensure that the document
is still legible.
Remove Unnecessary Images and Graphics
If possible, remove any unnecessary images or graphics from your document before printing. This will help reduce the file size and save ink.
Consider Print Layout Options
Explore print layout options that allow you to print multiple pages on a single sheet of paper. For example, you can choose to print two pages per sheet or create a booklet format, which can help save paper.
Printing Troubleshooting Tips
Printing issues can be frustrating, especially when you have a deadline to meet. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve common printing problems:
Check Printer Connections
Ensure that your device is properly connected to the printer. Check the cables and connections to make sure everything is secure.
Restart Devices and Printers
If you encounter printing issues, try restarting both your device and the printer. This can often resolve temporary glitches or connectivity problems.
Update Printer Drivers
Outdated printer drivers can cause compatibility issues. Check for updates on the printer manufacturer’s website and install the latest drivers if necessary.
Clear Print Queue
If your print job gets stuck in the queue, clear the print queue and resend the print job. This can help resolve issues with stalled or stuck print jobs.
Check Printer Settings
Verify that the printer settings are correctly configured. Ensure that the correct printer is selected, and check the settings for paper size, orientation, and print quality.
Summary:
By following these guidelines and best practices, you can optimize your printing experience at WVU. Minimizing printing waste, optimizing print layout and formatting, and troubleshooting common printing issues will not only save resources but also enhance your efficiency and productivity as a student. Adopting responsible printing practices will benefit both your academic journey and the environment.
Printing Services for Faculty and Staff
While this article primarily focuses on printing services for students, it is important to acknowledge the printing services available to WVU faculty and staff. Recognizing the specialized services and resources provided to employees ensures a comprehensive understanding of the printing ecosystem at WVU.
High-Volume Printing
Faculty and staff may have access to high-volume printing options for their specific needs. These options are often designed to accommodate large print jobs, such as printing course materials or research papers. High-volume printing services may have dedicated printers or specialized printing facilities.
Departmental Printing Accounts
Departments at WVU may have their own designated printing accounts to manage printing expenses and resources. This allows departments to allocate printing budgets, track usage, and ensure efficient printing practices within their respective units.
Specialized Printing Resources
Faculty and staff may have access to additional specialized printing resources, such as professional-grade printers or equipment for specific disciplines. These resources cater to the unique printing needs of faculty and staff, supporting their research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities.
Summary:
While students are the primary users of printing services, it is important to acknowledge the specialized printing resources available to faculty and staff at WVU. These tailored services ensure that employees have the necessary tools and resources to fulfill their roles effectively and efficiently.
Remote Printing Services
Remote printing services provide students with the flexibility to send print jobs from their personal devices and collect them at designated locations on campus. This convenient option allows students to print on the go without the need to physically visit a printing lab or library.
Setting up Remote Printing
Before using remote printing services, you will need to set up the necessary software or app on your device. Typically, WVU provides instructions and downloads for the required software on their website. Follow the step-by-step instructions to install and configure the software properly.
Sending Print Jobs
Once the remote printing software is installed, sending print jobs is a straightforward process. Simply select the printer and the desired print settings from the software or app, and choose the files you want to print. The print jobs will be stored in a print queue until you are ready to collect them.
Collecting Print Jobs
To collect your print jobs, visit the designated location on campus where the remote printing services are available. This location may have dedicated printers or release stations where you can authenticate and retrieve your print jobs. Follow the instructions provided by the remote printing software to complete the printing process.
Summary:
Remote printing services offer students the convenience of printing from their personal devices without the need for physical proximity to a printing location. By setting up the necessary software, sending print jobs, and collecting them at designated locations, students can enjoy the flexibility and ease of remote printing at WVU.
Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues
Printing issues can be frustrating, especially when you have a deadline approaching. Here are some common printing problems students may encounter and troubleshooting tips to resolve them:
Printer Not Found
If your device cannot find the printer, ensure that both your device and the printer are connected to the same network. Check the Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection and verify that the printer is turned on and properly configured.
Print Quality Issues
If your printed documents have streaks, smudges, or other quality issues, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Clean or Replace Ink Cartridges
Printer ink cartridges may become clogged or empty, resulting in poor print quality. Clean or replace the ink cartridges as necessary to ensure optimal performance.
Run Printer Maintenance Tools
Many printers have built-in maintenance tools that can help resolve print quality issues. Consult the printer’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website for instructions on running these tools.
Adjust Print Settings
Check your print settings and ensure that they are suitable for the type of document you are printing. Adjust the print quality, paper type, and color settings as needed to achieve the desired results.
Print Job Stuck in Queue
If your print job gets stuck in the queue and does not start printing, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Clear the Print Queue
Access the print queue on your device or through the printer’s control panel and clear any stuck or pending print jobs. Once the queue is cleared, resend the print job.
Restart Devices
If clearing the print queue does not resolve the issue, restart both your device and the printer. This can help resolve temporary software or connectivity glitches.
Check Printer Connections
Ensure that all cables and connections between your device and the printer are secure. A loose or faulty connection can prevent print jobs from being processed.
Summary:
By following these troubleshooting tips, students can overcome common printing issues and ensure a smooth printing experience at WVU. From printer connectivity problems to print quality issues and stuck print jobs, these troubleshooting steps can help resolve technical difficulties efficiently.
Printing Services for Special Projects
While standard printing services cover most student needs, certain projects may require specialized printing services. WVU offers additional printing options for unique projects, such as posters, banners, and 3D printing.
Large-Format Printing
For projects that require printing large posters or banners, WVU provides large-format printing services. These services utilize specialized printers capable of producing high-quality prints on larger paper sizes. Students can often find large-format printers in designated printing locations or departments that offer this service.
3D Printing
WVU also offers 3D printing services, allowing students to bring their digital designs to life. 3D printing technology enables the creation of three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on a digital model. Students interested in utilizing 3D printing services can often find dedicated 3D printing labs or resources that provide access to 3D printers and necessary software.
Specialty Paper and Materials
Some projects may require specialty paper or materials for printing. WVU may offer a variety of paper types, including glossy, matte, or textured paper, to suit specific project needs. Additionally, specialty printing services may accommodate printing on materials like fabric, vinyl, or transparencies.
Summary:
For projects beyond standard document printing, WVU provides specialized printing services. Large-format printing for posters and banners, 3D printing, and access to specialty paper and materials ensure that students can bring their creative ideas to life through printed mediums.
Printing Etiquette and Policies
Responsible printing practices are crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient printing experience for everyone at WVU. Understanding and adhering to printing etiquette and policies help ensure fair and sustainable use of printing resources.
Respecting Printing Quotas
Some printing services at WVU may have quotas or limits on the number of pages students can print. It is important to respect these quotas and avoid exceeding them. Use printing resources responsibly, and consider alternatives like digital reading or
note-taking to minimize unnecessary printing.
Minimizing Paper Waste
WVU promotes responsible printing practices to minimize paper waste. Students are encouraged to print only when necessary and to utilize duplex (double-sided) printing whenever possible. By reducing paper waste, we can conserve resources and reduce the environmental impact of printing.
Printing Copyrighted Materials
When printing copyrighted materials, it is important to adhere to copyright laws and regulations. Do not reproduce or distribute copyrighted materials without proper authorization. Respect intellectual property rights and ensure that your printing activities comply with copyright guidelines.
Respecting Printer Usage Guidelines
Follow any usage guidelines or restrictions specified by the printing location. These guidelines may include limitations on the types of documents that can be printed, time restrictions, or other considerations. Adhering to these guidelines ensures fairness and equitable access to printing resources for all WVU students.
Reporting Printer Issues
If you encounter any printer malfunctions or issues, promptly report them to the appropriate authority. This could be the printing location staff, IT support, or any designated contact for printer maintenance. Reporting issues helps ensure that printers are properly maintained and available for use by all students.
Summary:
By following printing etiquette and policies, students contribute to a harmonious and sustainable printing environment at WVU. Respecting printing quotas, minimizing paper waste, adhering to copyright guidelines, and reporting printer issues are essential for maintaining fair and efficient printing services for the entire WVU community.
Future Developments in Printing Technology at WVU
As technology continues to advance, printing services at WVU are also evolving to meet the changing needs of students. Here are some potential future developments in printing technology at WVU:
Mobile Printing Apps
With the increasing use of mobile devices, WVU may introduce mobile printing apps that allow students to print directly from their smartphones or tablets. These apps could provide seamless integration with the WVU printing system, making printing even more convenient.
Cloud Printing Integration
Integrating cloud storage services with the WVU printing system could streamline the printing process. Students could directly access and print documents stored in their cloud accounts, eliminating the need to transfer files to local devices before printing.
Enhanced Security Features
Printing security is a growing concern, and future developments may focus on enhancing security features. This could include implementing secure print release methods, requiring user authentication for print jobs, or implementing advanced encryption protocols to protect sensitive information.
Green Printing Initiatives
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, WVU may introduce green printing initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of printing. This could include promoting paperless alternatives, incentivizing responsible printing practices, or implementing eco-friendly printing technologies.
Advanced Specialty Printing Services
Future developments may introduce new and advanced specialty printing services to cater to a wider range of student projects. This could include expanded options for 3D printing, introduction of new printing materials, or integration of cutting-edge printing technologies for unique applications.
Summary:
The future of printing at WVU holds exciting possibilities. Mobile printing apps, cloud integration, enhanced security features, green printing initiatives, and advanced specialty printing services are just some of the potential developments that may enhance the printing experience for students in the future. WVU remains committed to staying at the forefront of printing technology to support the academic journey of its students.
Conclusion:
Printing plays a significant role in the daily lives of WVU students, and having a comprehensive understanding of the printing services available can greatly enhance their academic journey. By familiarizing yourself with the printing options, costs, guidelines, troubleshooting tips, and future developments provided in this guide, you will be well-equipped to navigate the world of printing at WVU efficiently and effortlessly. Remember to practice responsible printing, respect printing policies, and embrace technological advancements to make the most out of the printing resources provided by WVU.