Scan using an app (recommended)
The easiest way is to download an app on your phone that can scan the document. Scanning apps allow you to scan multiple pages into a single PDF file (often called batch scanning). It works like taking a regular picture, but the image is directly converted into a PDF. Many apps also let you enhance the document quality by applying a filter (usually represented by a small magic wand icon), crop pages, and adjust their orientation.
Once scanned, you can save the PDF file on your phone or send it via email. You can email it to yourself to open and download it on your computer. Alternatively, you can log into Unioo on your phone and upload the file directly.
You can find a scanning app in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store by searching for “scan app” or “PDF scanner app.” Some apps are free, while others require payment.
Take a picture and convert it to PDF on the computer
This method is more complicated, but you can also take pictures of the documents with your phone. Make sure to take one picture per page—avoid capturing multiple pages in a single image, as the quality may suffer. Then, insert the images into Word, Google Docs, or another word processor and save the entire document as a PDF file. Read more about this here.
If you choose this method, you might encounter an issue where the file is too large to upload. You can reduce (compress) the file size using PDF Resizer or a similar tool. Read more about this here.
Use a scanner
Libraries always have a scanner you can use, along with a helpful librarian ready to assist you. This way, you can scan your pages directly onto a computer as a PDF file. To make things even easier, you can use the library’s computer to log into Unioo and upload the files directly. Alternatively, you can email the PDF to yourself by logging into your email on the library's computer and attaching the file. You can also save the PDF onto a USB stick. Remember to delete your files and log out of your email and Unioo on the public computer.
Many office supply stores—those that offer copying and graphic services—also provide scanning assistance. They may charge a small fee, but you’ll get professional help. If your document has many pages, they can also reduce the file size without compromising quality.