The History of University of Nebraska-Lincoln Print and Mail Services
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Print and Mail Services has been a cornerstone of campus operations for over a century. From its early beginnings in the 1921 academic year as a trade school for veterans to its role today as a cutting-edge provider of print, promotional and mail solutions, the department reflects the university’s commitment to innovation, service, and excellence.
Origins and Early Years
Before its official founding, the university addressed printing needs through various means, including a training school for veterans. In 1919, The Daily Nebraskan, the university’s student publication, highlighted the pressing need for a dedicated print service. This demand spurred the establishment of Print Services in 1923 to better serve the growing needs of the university community.
Relocations and Expansions
Over the past century, Print and Mail Services has moved to several locations to accommodate its expanding operations. Originally housed in the Mechanical Engineering Building, it relocated to the basement on the west side of Memorial Stadium in 1924. During the early months of 1961, the operation was moved to another basement, this time in the newly renovated Nebraska Hall. The department eventually moved to the Business Services Complex at 1700 Y Street in the early 2000’s, where it still operates today.
Technological Advancements
Print and Mail Services has consistently embraced technological innovations to provide state-of-the-art solutions. At its founding, The Daily Nebraskan said the plant contained “the most complete and modern” examples of printing presses and bindery equipment, which included one of the first mimeograph copy centers on a university campus. Although much of its history remains unrecorded, the shop evolved with the times, adopting offset printing, computer-aided color control and bindery assistance, and embracing the ongoing digital revolution in prepress technology.
Continuing that trend, 2023 saw the installation of the AccurioJet KM-1 digital inkjet press, a high-performance press that delivers offset quality and color consistency with all the benefits of a digital press capable of producing complex variable projects. This advanced technology provides the university with the opportunity to produce unique, personalized marketing materials. Nebraska was the second university in the country to install this new device, exemplifying the department’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the print industry, ensuring efficiency and excellence for its clients.
Aligned with the University’s Mission
Print and Mail Services exemplifies the university’s promise to deliver expert solutions that support the academic and operational goals of the institution. By providing high-quality products at competitive costs, the department partners with faculty, staff, and students to achieve the university’s unique and far-reaching objectives.