Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Board • Fine • Print Run

Letterpress

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

Letterpress is a traditional printing method where text and images are created by pressing raised metal type or designs into paper. It's considered a high-quality, premium printing technique that produces distinctive results you can feel on the paper. In rare book dealing, letterpress printing is important because it helps determine a book's age, value, and authenticity. It's similar to other historic printing methods like intaglio or lithography. When someone mentions letterpress in their resume, they're typically referring to their experience with historical books printed this way or their ability to identify and evaluate such printing techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Evaluated and cataloged over 200 Letterpress printed volumes from the 18th century

Specialized in identifying Letterpress and Hand-Press printed materials for authentication

Restored and preserved rare Letterpress books and ephemera

Typical job title: "Rare Book Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Rare Book Dealer Antiquarian Book Specialist Book Conservator Rare Book Librarian Book Authentication Specialist Rare Book Curator Fine Press Specialist

Where to Find Rare Book Specialists

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Trade Events

• Rare Book Fairs Calendar
• ABAA Book Fairs

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the value of a letterpress printed book?

Expected Answer: A senior specialist should discuss multiple factors: the age of the printing, condition, rarity, historical significance, quality of the letterpress work, and market demand. They should mention how to identify authentic letterpress characteristics and current market trends.

Q: What are the key differences between various historical printing methods?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how letterpress differs from other historical printing methods like lithography and intaglio, including visual characteristics and how to identify each method in historical books.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you identify authentic letterpress printing in a book?

Expected Answer: Should describe the physical characteristics of letterpress printing, such as the impression in the paper, examining the back of pages, and typical patterns of ink distribution.

Q: What are common condition issues with letterpress printed books?

Expected Answer: Should discuss typical problems like paper foxing, wear patterns, binding issues, and how these affect value and preservation needs.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools do you use to examine letterpress printed books?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic examination tools like magnifying glasses, good lighting, and explain basic observation techniques for identifying letterpress printing.

Q: How do you handle and store letterpress printed materials?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic preservation techniques, proper handling methods, and storage conditions for vintage printed materials.