1. What is a typophile?

A typophile (with a lower-case 't') is a lover of type and things related to type. The word comes from the Greek word typos blow, impression, model, from typtein to strike, beat; akin to Sanskrit tupati he injures and probably to Latin stupEre to be benumbed; and the Greek word philos, which means "loved" or "beloved". A typophile is therefore one having an affinity for or a strong attraction to letterforms and their use.

2. What is a Typophile?

A Typophile (using the upper-case 'T') is a member of the New York organization, The Typophiles, who gather every quarter for a luncheon and maintain a long-standing publication program of Chap-Books, Monographs, and keepsakes.

3. Who started The Typophiles?

Paul Bennett and a number of other men who were professionally concerned with typographic interests through their jobs in printing, advertising, and art direction. Other early members included Bruce Rogers, Fred Goudy, “Paul Beaujon” (Beatrice Warde), W.A. Dwiggins, T.M. Cleland, D.B. Updike, and Alfred P. Knopf.

4. Who are the members?

The Typophiles include people from all walks of life who share an abiding interest in letterforms and their use. An eclectic bunch, they are committed to preserving the arts and crafts allied with typography, and to seeing their more widespread appreciation through informal and formal discussion, and through publications. Members include designers, publishers, printers, calligraphers, educators, librarians, and collectors

5. Can I join?

Yes. Membership is open to anyone who supports the purpose of the Typophiles: “to engage in, carry on and conduct studies of graphic arts subjects and to further the development and appreciation of graphic arts and typography.” (See this page to see how to apply for membership in The Typophiles.)

6. Who are the speakers at the luncheons?

You can browse a list of recent speakers.

7. I want to buy an older Typophile publication. Do you keep them in stock?

Our publications are distributed by Oak Knoll Books. Current members are mailed the annual Monograph and offered the occasional Chap Book at a discount.

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Do you have a question you ask frequently? Or perhaps you are asked a question frequently and you can provide the answer here for the edification of the curious. Write to faq@typophiles.com with your questions and (even better) your answers.