Screenz isn't your average computing center. Not only does it still harbor the early '90s feeling "z" in its name, but unlike FedEx/Kinko's, while you patronize this place, know that you're not fueling the creeping corporatization of Chicago neighborhoods.

The Andersonville branch (the second store is located in Lincoln Park) of this technological hotspot feels like a mix between the Norris Center at Northwestern (i.e. a college-style café) and, well, a computer lab, minus the dweebie dude who won't answer your questions because he's reached level 12 of some online game. The staff seem to be high school-aged, and always do their best to answer questions of the oft-demanding customers.

Screenz offers a variety of services, including wifi internet, black-and-white and color printing (at 29- and 79-cents-per-page, respectively), and scanning, CD burning and photocopying. Additional deals include oversize printing, and in-store promotions like a free computing course for new members.

You're probably wondering how to get hooked up, right? I, too, was intimidated when I first walked into Screenz, but I quickly discovered that it's more convenient, and probably cheaper, to print here than to invest in an ink-eating printer. Just buy a Screenz card at the front desk, add money, and choose a monitor. All the machines are PCs, save for a lone Mac hiding in the back corner. If you're into PC games and/or massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) like World of Warcraft, Screenz offers a full-day pass for under $25. It sounds pricey, but just think — you'll actually have a live person somewhere near you.

Centerstage Reviewer: Alicia Eler