printimist

A printimist is a person who emphasizes the value of printed media and physical formats, arguing for their preservation and continued use in an increasingly digital information ecosystem. The term can describe a stance within journalism, libraries, publishing, and cultural discourse that sees ongoing relevance for newspapers, books, magazines, and archival prints.

Etymology and scope: Printimist is a portmanteau of print and optimist. It is a loosely defined, informal label that emerged in online discussions in the 21st century and does not have a formal, universally accepted definition. The term is used more as a descriptive joke or a provisional label than as a strict designation.

Usage and context: In debates about information ecosystems, a printimist may advocate for robust physical libraries, durable archiving strategies, and the educational value of tactile media for reading, learning, and memory. The term is sometimes employed humorously to describe individuals who resist digital-only approaches, or who prioritize traditional publishing workflows and print-first design principles.

Variations and reception: Printism and related terminology are not recognized professions or formal movements. They function primarily as shorthand within discussions about media culture, digitization, and preservation. Critics often frame printism as a perspective within broader conversations about accessibility, sustainability, and the role of physical media in society.

See also: Print culture, Archival science, Library science, Publishing, Digital media.