Printing and Scanning

Printing FAQs

• How do I print?

  You may print from any of our Library computers, or from anywhere on your own device.

  Use a Library Computer
  

  1. You can print using the default settings on the computer and pickup your job at the Print Release station in the Library. 
  2. At the Print Release Station, enter your Library Card & Last Name to retrieve the print job. 
  3. You can use a print card (purchased separately) or insert cash (it accepts $1 and $5 bills as well as nickels, dimes and quarters).
  4. Contra Costa County Library cardholders can print up to ten (10) black and white pages per day free of charge. 

  Print from anywhere on your own device (SmartAlec)

  1. You can send print jobs for pickup at any Contra Costa County Library using our SmartAlec service. Visit the link and enter your Library Card & Last Name information.
  2. SmartAlec is also available as a free download on Android and iOS. 
  3. After logging-in, you will be able to upload a document to print. You may visit any of our locations to retrieve your print job. 
  4. Staff cannot selectively print individual pages from within a multi-page document so be sure to upload only the pages you want to print. 

• Do you need to have a library card or a visitor pass to use an Express computer?

  No, you don't need a library card or visitor pass to use an Express computer. However, you will need one to print.

• How much does it cost to print or scan?

  Contra Costa County  Library cardholders can print up to ten (10) black and white pages per day free of charge. 

  • Black and white pages are $0.15 per page
  • Color pages are $0.50 per page
  • Scanning is free

• How long do I have to pickup my print job?

  When printing at a Library computer, your print job is deleted at the end of the day.

  For online printing, documents stored in the print server are deleted after seven days. This cannot be extended, so if you are unable to visit during that window you will need to send your document again.

• Is color printing available?

  Yes, color printing is available for the cost of $0.50 per page.