"is dedicated to the preservation of the traditional crafts of bookmaking, as well as contemporary interpretations of the book as an art object. Founded in 1974, it was the first non-profit organization of its kind in the nation, and has since become a model for others around the world. The Center has organized over 130 exhibitions related to the art of the book, and each year more than 200 artists use our fully-equipped print shop and bindery to create new works which reflect centuries of craft tradition. The Center offer over 120 courses, workshops, seminars and lectures in three semesters a year, as well as services to artists, including an intern and apprenticeship program, special publications, workspace rentals, and a book artists slide registry. The Center for Book Arts ensures that the ancient craft of the book -- that container which preserves the knowledge and ideas of a culture -- remains a viable and vital part of our civilization.