About the OCPP
The Ottawa Community Printing Press exists to support grassroots community engagement through physical, public communication. We believe in the power of streets, cafes, and community centers as spaces where culture happens—not algorithms, not feeds, not likes.
Postering is a highly effective, low-cost method of reaching people in your community. It targets pedestrians where they already are: walking to work, grabbing coffee, visiting the library, waiting for the bus. Your poster can reach the exact people who might show up to your event, join your club, or engage with your idea.
OCPP Locations
The OCPP operates at five library locations across Ottawa. Each location has self-serve printing stations with tech support volunteers available during operating hours.
Main Branch
120 Metcalfe Street
Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm
Sunday: 12pm–5pm
Rideau Branch
377 Rideau Street
Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm
Sunday: 12pm–5pm
Nepean Centrepointe
101 Centrepointe Drive
Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm
Sunday: 12pm–5pm
Orleans Branch
1705 Orleans Boulevard
Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm
Sunday: 12pm–5pm
Barrhaven Branch
3870 Greenbank Road
Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm
Sunday: 12pm–5pm
How to Use the Press
Getting Started
- Bring your design: USB stick, email yourself the file, or create it at our scanning/assembly stations
- Choose your printing method: Risograph, screen printing, large format digital, or collage assembly
- Select your materials: Choose from our extensive paper stock and specialty inks
- Print your posters: Self-serve with tech support available if needed
- Take and share: Your posters are ready to go up around the city
Pricing
Standard rates:
- 1–50 posters: 15¢ each
- 51–100 posters: 10¢ each
- 101+ posters: 6¢ each
Payment accepted: cash, debit, credit
Community Poster Bins (Optional)
Want to help spread the word for other community members? Each OCPP location has bins full of posters from other users. You're welcome to:
- Take posters and put them up around your neighborhood
- Use them for collage projects
- Display them in your space
- Share them however you'd like
This is completely voluntary—a way to help build citywide reach for community events and ideas through mutual aid.
Available Equipment & Materials
Risograph Printers
High-speed, vibrant color printing with unique textures
- Desktop models (8.5" × 11")
- Medium format (11" × 17")
- Large format (13" × 19")
- Multiple color options available
- Specialty inks: UV-reactive, fluorescent, metallic
Screen Printing Stations
Manual screen printing for custom designs
- Multiple screen sizes available
- Standard and specialty inks
- Heat-sensitive inks
- Waterproof inks for outdoor use
- Transparent inks for layering effects
Large Format Digital Printers
High-quality digital printing in various sizes
- Up to 44" wide
- Standard and archival inks
- Photo-quality printing available
- Works with various paper stocks
Assembly & Collage Stations
Create and assemble your designs on-site
- Scanning stations
- Cutting mats and tools
- Adhesives and tapes
- Layout tables
- Photocopiers for quick reproductions
Paper Stock
We stock a wide variety of paper types to suit different needs:
- Standard poster stock: Various weights and colors
- Translucent rice paper: For layering and experimental effects
- Newsprint: Economical option with unique degradation properties
- Cardstock: Heavy-duty for durability
- Waterproof materials: Weather-resistant for outdoor posting
- Recycled papers: Various textures and eco-friendly options
- Specialty papers: Textured, metallic, and experimental stocks
Inks & Adhesives
- Standard inks: Full color spectrum
- UV-reactive inks: Reveal hidden elements in sunlight
- Heat-sensitive inks: Change color with temperature
- Waterproof inks: Long-lasting outdoor durability
- Wheat paste: Traditional postering adhesive
- Specialty adhesives: For various paper types and conditions
Gallery
Examples of the OCPP workspace and community print culture in action.
