Visit Common Press to print a copy of the Declaration of Independence for yourself! The composition will be set in Caslon metal type and ready to print on our 1889 cast-iron handpress. Timed reservations are required; reservations take place on Fridays between 10am and 4pm. See our FAQ below for details.
Hosted by: Common Press
As part of the Penn Libraries' America 250 programming, the Common Press launched The Typography of Independence, an initiative celebrating the papermaking and printing techniques that created the first edition of the Declaration of Independence.
To cap off the year-long program, which included papermaking and typesetting workshops, we invite you to come print a commemorative copy of the Declaration to take home!
Yes! This activity is free and open to the public. You will need a PennCard or a valid photo ID to enter the Fisher Fine Arts Library where the Common Press is located. See access guidelines here.
Yes and yes! You are welcome to bring groups of up to 15 participants using the registration link above. Children are welcome with a guardian or adult. Children under 18 do not need ID to enter the library as long as they are with a guardian.
The activity takes 30 minutes or less, but reservations are for 1 hour time slots.
You can cancel an existing reservation via a link in the confirmation email you received. Late arrivals (more than 15 minutes) cannot be accommodated.
Please email jesspe@upenn.edu with any questions and concerns. Responses to emails and phone calls may take up to 48 hours.
As part of the Penn Libraries America 250 programming, join the Common Press for The Typography of Independence, a year-long program celebrating the papermaking and printing techniques that created the first edition of the Declaration of Independence.
The University of Pennsylvania, located in the heart of the city, was at the center of the dramatic events of 1776 and the Revolution that followed. 250 years later, partners across the university are exploring how history can help us better understand the present and create a sustainable and inclusive future.