County public libraries to offer free printing and copying starting Monday, Jan. 5

Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) announces a major service enhancement, allowing users to print most documents at no cost. Beginning Monday, Jan. 5, all MCPL branches, except Noyes Library for Young Children, will offer daily free printing and copying to customers. Up to 15 black and white pages or two color pages can be printed or copied per day, free of charge.

This enhancement eliminates the need for MCPL to maintain cash for providing change to users for printing or copying jobs. As part of this transition, some items like earbuds and flash drives will now be available free of charge to Montgomery County residents on a limited basis. This change reflects MCPL’s ongoing commitment to equity, access and operational efficiency.

“This is a big step forward in making our libraries more accessible and welcoming to all,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “By removing financial barriers to essential services like printing and copying, we’re helping residents stay connected, informed, and empowered.”

Key Benefits and Impacts

• Equity and Access: Many community members rely on library resources to apply for jobs, access government services, complete schoolwork, and stay connected. Free printing and copying will help remove financial barriers to producing critical documents.
• Business Process Improvement: Eliminating cash and credit card transactions at service desks will streamline internal operations.
• Staff Impact: Library staff will no longer handle cash, reconcile registers, or prepare deposits. This shift reduces administrative burden, enhances security, and improves overall efficiency.

“This change allows our staff to spend more time assisting customers and less time managing cash and transactions,” said MCPL Director Darcell Graham. “It’s a win for both efficiency and customer experience.”

Additionally, all fees for lost or damaged materials or printing and copying beyond the free daily allotment will now be payable exclusively through customers’ online library accounts, further simplifying the user experience.

“We’re proud to join other library systems in offering these services for free,” added Elrich. “This is about meeting people where they are and ensuring everyone has access to the tools they need to succeed.”