Typehouses

Typehouses, also known as type specimen houses or type specimen libraries, are institutions dedicated to the preservation, study, and display of typefaces. These establishments serve as repositories for historical and contemporary type specimens, providing a valuable resource for typographers, designers, and historians. Typehouses often house a vast collection of type specimens, including metal type, phototypesetting type, and digital typefaces. They play a crucial role in the history of typography, preserving the evolution of type design and its impact on communication and design.

The primary functions of a typehouse include the preservation of type specimens, the study of typographic history, and the display of typefaces for educational and inspirational purposes. Many typehouses also offer workshops, lectures, and exhibitions to engage the public and promote an understanding of typography. Some typehouses are affiliated with universities or design schools, providing educational opportunities for students and professionals alike.

Notable typehouses around the world include the Monotype Type Library in the United Kingdom, the American Type Founders' Library in the United States, and the Type Museum in the Netherlands. These institutions contribute significantly to the field of typography by preserving and promoting the art and science of type design.