The development of the major formal and informal book hands, the dominant printing types of each period, and their interrelationship. The course presupposes a general knowledge of Western history and some awareness of the continuity of the Latin script but no special knowledge of typographical history. It is presumed that applicants, even though they may not have had formal exposure to typographic history, have a considerable but general interest in the history of the book. James Mosley has taught this course many times since 1984. By precept and critical examination of work, the course pinpoints how available software can generate appropriate design from laser-printed posters and leaflets through complex projects involving commercial printers.
Prime concerns are suitability, client expectations and institutional authority.
This course is aimed at library and museum staff responsible for the appearance of printed materials ranging from simple case labels to elaborately illustrated catalogs. The developing doctrine of typographic organization and design calls forth an evaluation of materials, tools, and processes. Design problems are posed as student exercises, and considerable time will be spent evaluating examples of museum and library printing supplied by students, the instructor, and the BAP collections. Greer Allen has taught this course annually since 1994.