Common Press

Changes coming to Books by Mail: Starting in fall 2025, Books by Mail items will only be shipped to addresses in the contiguous United States 50 miles or further from campus. We will make exceptions for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities. Learn more.

Fisher restoration: Fisher Fine Arts Library is open and operating normally during ongoing exterior work. Find more details about this important restoration project.

Jul 30

Open to Penn Students, Faculty, and Staff

History of Type and Letterpress Printing with Guided Tour and Demonstration

Experience a guided tour and demonstration of letterpress printing and typography.

July 30, 2025
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Common Press, Fisher Fine Arts Library, Lower Level

A classical scene showing two women in draped garments surrounded by five children, all of whom are handling pieces of printing equipment

Aug 06

Workshop

Open to Penn Students, Faculty, and Staff

Studio Use Training: Letterpress Printing

Learn and practice the basics of letterpress printing and typesetting. This orientation is required as a prerequisite for working on independent projects at Common Press.

August 6, 2025
10:00am - 12:00pm
Common Press, Fisher Fine Arts Library, Lower Level

Aug 13

Open to the Public

Open Studio: Printing Virgin Type

Be one of the first to print using a brand-new metal type, cast in San Francisco at M & H Foundry.

August 13, 2025
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Common Press, Fisher Fine Arts Library, Lower Level

Maps and More

Campus Libraries Map

Staff Information

Resources for Staff Committees