The department is now offering a fingerprinting service with its new Livescan equipment, which eliminates the need for ink, hand-rolled fingerprinting and paper cards transmitted via mail.

Livescan is a computerized program that scans fingerprints digitally on a keypad and then sends the prints electronically. According to the department, the modernized equipment decreases turnaround time for results from the California Department of Justice from eight weeks to 10 days.

Bonnie Eckert, records and communications manager for the police department, said the sheriff's office previously had the only Livescan computer in the county. Los Gatos­Monte Sereno police applied for and received one of 50 grants that the state was offering. "They based it on the fact that we were on one end of the county" and the sheriff's office was in the middle of the county, Eckert said.

Also, Eckert said, the San Jose Police Department, a "focal point for criminal prints in the state," supported Los Gatos' grant application.

"The state is trying to get it so that nobody sends paper cards anymore," Eckert said.

The department received the Livescan machine in August but only started offering the service to the public in January. Those who typically need fingerprinting services include teachers, real estate agents, nonprofit volunteers and coaches—people who need clearance for employment or to obtain permits or licenses. "In some cases, employers are held up until they get the results," Eckert said.

Fees for fingerprinting depend on the purpose of the service. The town charges a $20 fee, while Department of Justice charges range from $32 to $73, determined by whether an FBI check is also required.

Fingerprinting services are available by appointment Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drop-ins can be accepted but are not encouraged. To make an appointment or for more information, call 408.354.5257 on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.