Activity Overview
The technology of printing has changed immensely over the years. Printing used to be in the form of hand-setting, to using heavy machineries, and then to digital and computerized prints. The 25,000 square feet Museum of Printing tells the history and evolution of printing technology.
Things to Do
- Reminisce the time when words were written with ink and paper in the Composing Room. Printing wasn't always digital. See displays of printing machines such as Monotypes, Linotypes, and The Ludlows. You will find the Photography and Plate Making, Pressroom, and the Bindery sections as well. A knowledgeable guide will take you through the transition of printing technology.
- See the largest collection of printing hardware such as hand-setters, types, typesetters, photo typesetters, cylinder presses and paper binders that go back 500 years. The museum also has a library with an archive of books and documents related to printing.
- Aside from seeing the collections, you can also join workshops, events, and lectures hosted by the museum. Check the museum's website for schedule of fairs, type sales, and phototypesetting days.
- Visit the Robert L. Richter Memorial Library and browse materials on printing history, typographic design, paper manufacturing history, and graphic design. Drop by the Megenthaler Font Library and see 300,000 letter drawings.
The Museum of Printing Insider Tips
- The museum is only open on Saturdays from 10AM-4PM. They can open on other days for group visits so call in advance to schedule a trip.
- Museum accepts reservations for private events and conferences. Contact the Executive Director for details.
