Next step in digital journey for city’s libraries

Access to printing facilities in libraries across Stoke-on-Trent are set to be improved by installing Wi-Fi printing.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council were successfully awarded £300,000 from the Libraries Improvement Fund and one part of this project is to improve the printing facilities across all six libraries in the city.

It means people will now be able to print from their own device instead of relying on library computers, a move which will make working or studying at the library even more appealing.

Digital access in Stoke-on-Trent libraries is evolving to meet customer needs. The trend points towards library users preferring to bring their own device instead of relying on library computers.

In the years 2023/24, there were 248,276 visits to the libraries in the city, with 16,552 Wi-Fi logins and 41,345 logins onto the public PCs.

By securing this grant funding, this will enable residents who access Wi-Fi with their own devices to make use of printing facilities.

Customer experience will be made easier and quicker and for Stoke-on-Trent libraries and it will be a source of support for people who do not have access to printing.

Councillor Alastair Watson, Cabinet member for Financial Sustainability and Corporate Services, said: “I welcome this grant funding and another stage in the journey of giving libraries the digital edge alongside the books.

“By installing this printing software, it will free up staff time at the libraries, so they can assist customers who may struggle, due to limited I.T knowledge. It will also provide extra support to those without access to these digital facilities or who see the library as part of their social experience.

“I hope residents will make good use of it and enjoy the library space.”

Between Monday October 7 and Friday October 11, 2024, work will be underway to install the wireless printing capabilities, so public PCs are unavailable.