Delaware Library introduces limited FREE daily printing to all cardholders. Starting Monday, July 20, patrons can utilize up to $3.00 in free printing every day just by using their library card.

Delaware Library introduces FREE daily printing for cardholders

Up to $3 worth of free printing every day per cardholder

Posted: Wednesday, July 8, 2026

After careful consideration and research, the Delaware County District Library (DCDL) has decided to offer limited free printing to all cardholders. Starting Monday, July 20, patrons can utilize up to $3.00 in free printing every day just by using their library card.

With standard printing priced at 5 cents for black-and-white and 15 cents for color, the $3.00 allowance will cover up to 60 black-and-white pages or 20 color pages daily. Patrons whose print jobs exceed the $3.00 limit will only pay the remaining balance.

“The Delaware County District Library values ease, convenience and accessibility for our patrons,” said DCDL Fiscal Officer Angie Grossenbacher. “While accepting credit cards as payment for printing is incredibly convenient, it is not without cost to the library.”

In 2024, the Library received $59,313 in credit card payments, but paid out $7,168 (12 percent) in fees. In 2025, $70,960 was collected, but $6,452 (9 percent) was paid in fees.

The Library collects payment for patron fees from lost items, copying, Maker Studio material usage, and printing. Printing makes up 40 percent of the total credit card usage, and a $3.00 free printing cap covers approximately 80 percent of all printing jobs at the Delaware County District Library.

“We’ve spoken with our peer library systems, and they have found that a limited free printing model significantly reduces cash handling, fees, and fiscal processing time,” said project leader and Liberty Branch Manager Sara Arango. “Implementing this system at DCDL is just another reason why your library card is the most valuable card in your wallet. With up to $3.00 in free printing per day, we continue to emphasize the affordability and access that a public library brings to the community.”

The free printing cap is only available to users with a Delaware County District Library card, and the $3.00 balance resets automatically each day. All Ohio residents are able to sign up for a library card at any public library in Ohio, regardless of the city or county in which they reside. Copying services are not included in the daily cap.

“We look forward to this opening doors for students, job seekers, parents, taxpayers and learners,” said DCDL Director Bryan Howard. “We know that the more we remove barriers, the better we serve our community and meet them where they are. Paying a quarter to print a resume or a homework project may not seem like a lot, but offering it for free will create a lasting impact for our patrons who need it.”