Program Overview

University of Montana Book Arts Program

The University of Montana's Book Arts Program is a new initiative spearheaded by world-renowned bookmaker and letterpress printer Peter Koch. This program focuses on letterpress development, artistic design, handcrafted books and binding, and more.

Program Details

• The program utilizes the Hacker Test Press No.5B from 1936, a hand-cranked press with an optional motor.
• Students can learn skills to operate the mechanical press, print handmade books, and learn the history of the literary art form.
• The program is offered in conjunction with the UM Press, Art department, and English department.

Courses and Research Areas

• Book Arts courses are available, allowing students to develop their skills in operating the mechanical press and printing handmade books.
• Research areas include the history of the literary art form and the importance of physical books in a time of digital communication.

Program Goals

• The program aims to reinvigorate the importance of physical books in a time of digital communication.
• It also seeks to provide students with a unique learning experience, combining artistic design, handcrafted books, and binding techniques.

Facilities and Equipment

• The program is based in the Schreiber building on the University of Montana's campus.
• The Hacker Test Press No.5B from 1936 is the primary equipment used in the program.

Collaborations

• The program collaborates with the UM Press, Art department, and English department to offer a comprehensive learning experience.
• The program has also collaborated with notable authors and artists, such as Debra Earling, to produce unique literary works.